Victorians are urged to start preparing for the upcoming fire season as Fire Action Week kicks off today.
* Victorian Government Media Release *
Minister for Emergency Services Jane Garrett said Fire Action Week has been brought forward this year to ensure all Victorians have time to prepare for what will potentially be a severe fire season.
Launching Fire Action week today in Endeavour Hills, Ms Garrett said emergency crews have already responded to significant fires including 385 bush, scrub and grassfires over one week in October.
In 2014-15, emergency services responded to around 4,250 bush and grass fires.
Fire Action Week runs from 1 – 8 November and is an opportunity for Victorians to plan and prepare for the risk of firein summer.
At today’s CFA Community Day in Endeavour Hills, residents on Melbourne’s urban fringe learnt about the local fire risks, how to take action to improve their safety and the safety of their neighbours over summer.
Endeavour Hills has experienced major fires in the past including on Black Saturday when nine homes were lost in Narre Warren North and Narre Warren South along with buildings, fences and livestock.
For those living near bush or grassland leaving early is the safest option on a high-risk fire day.
For help understanding your risk and how to get prepared for summer, visit emergency.vic.gov.au, download the FireReady app or call the Victorian Bushfire Information Line on 1800 240 667.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Emergency Services Jane Garrett
“As we brace for a long hot fire season, we’ve brought Fire Action Week forward to encourage all Victorians to turn their attention to fire preparation now.”
“Victoria’s emergency services do an excellent job protecting communities but people also have a responsibility to get ready for the season.”
“Now is the time to start thinking about the summer and start preparing. Learn about the fire risk in your area, prepare your property and know what you’ll do if a fire starts.”
Author: CFA Media