So far just over 110 brigades have registered their open day and more are being added every day.
CFA Chief Officer Euan Ferguson said open days provided an opportunity for community members to find out how they can protect themselves, their families and properties from fire this summer.
He also said people keen to get involved could speak to CFA members about joining their local brigade.
“There are plenty of opportunities to volunteer with CFA that don’t just involve getting on a fire truck,” Euan said.
We have 12 brigades opening their doors in September. All brigades will have activities ranging from firefighting demonstrations and recruitment information to kids’ activities and BBQs.
The first one off the rank this year is Broadwater brigade on 6 September. Members of the public are encouraged to come along and get an understanding of what their local fire brigade does in their community and enjoy a BBQ.
The week after, on Sunday 13 September, Badger Creek, Dadswells Bridge and Loch Sport brigades have their open days.
Badger Creek is a volunteer brigade which responds to approximately 150 emergencies each year and has provided personnel to fight all the major bushfires in recent years. Brigade members will be giving their community information on how to prepare for the fire season. Children can meet Captain Koala and climb on the truck while parents listen to interesting stories from one of the CFA members. There will also be a sausage sizzle for all to enjoy.
Dadswell Bridge brigade, which celebrated its 80-year anniversary this year, will have information on the fire-ready status of the area and how you can keep your property safe. The brigade’s new light tanker will be on show on the day.
The Loch Sport Fire Station will be open to the public during the morning. Brigade members will be available to help residents with concerns/queries and will have fire safety material on hand. The fire trucks will be out and there will be children's activities to entertain the younger ones.
Later that month, on Saturday 19 September Nariel Valley Rural Fire Brigade is opening their doors. On Sunday 20 September, Acheron, Raywood, Geelong West and Murchison brigades are welcoming the community for a chat about fire safety and volunteering. Simpson and Barnawartha brigades end the month with their open days on 27 September.
Euan Ferguson said CFA Open Day was a way for the public and CFA as a whole to recognise the great work being done by CFA’s 60,000 members to protect lives and property in Victoria.
Members of the public can visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au/openday to find out about their local open day.
Author: CFA Partnerships and Marketing