CFA urges Victoria to Get Fire Ready

The Get Fire Ready initiative will kick off on October 4 and 5 and run throughout the month.  

CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said the Get Fire Ready events are designed to inform and educate the community about their local fire risks. 

“The seasonal outlook warns parts of Victoria could face an increased fire risk this bushfire season and CFA is getting on the front foot to help communities across Victoria plan and prepare for bushfire season,” Jason said. 

“Get Fire Ready is about making sure every Victorian understands their fire risk, has a fire plan and knows where to get emergency information.” 

“More than 500 brigades across Victoria are either holding events at their station, at local community events or within the community. 

“Brigades will chat to the community about their local bushfire and grassfire risks, steps they can take to prepare and where to get emergency information from.” 

One of the brigades’ taking part is Dimboola, an area that dealt with a large bushfire earlier this year and is again at increased fire risk this spring.  

Brigade Captain Lyndon Kuhne said the open days are a chance to strengthen ties with the community. 

“We know our patch and the risks bushfire poses. These open days are a chance to sit down with our friends and neighbours and talk through their plans,” Lyndon said. 

“Too often people think it won’t happen to them. In January, we saw firsthand the importance of preparing early, having a plan. Don’t wait until fire is at your door.” 

CFA is encouraging all Victorians, particularly those in high-risk areas, to attend their local Get Fire Ready event. 

Jason reinforced that preparation doesn’t need to be complicated. 

“Clearing gutters, mowing lawns, trimming branches, knowing where you’ll go if a fire breaks out and setting a watch zone in the VicEmergency app can make a real difference in an emergency,” Jason said. 

To find out when your local brigade is taking part visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au/getfireready.