Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority
With days of significant fire danger forecast this week amid hot, dry and windy conditions, CFA is reminding residents that leaving early is the safest option.
With severe to extreme heatwave conditions developing throughout the week and temperatures soaring to above 40, High to Extreme fire danger ratings will be in place across Victoria.
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said knowing what trigger point you will leave at is an important part of your bushfire plan.
“Leaving early means leaving the area before a fire starts, not when you can see flames or smoke,” Jason said.
“On Extreme and Catastrophic days, leaving the night before or early in the morning is the safest option and now is the time for families to sit down and understand what their bushfire plan will be.”
“Organise before you leave where you will go to avoid panic or being trapped.”
“This could be to stay with family or friends in a low-risk area, a shopping complex or central business district of a large regional or urban centre, or other community buildings, such as libraries in low-risk areas.
“It is also important to call family and friends and let them know where you are going.
“Bushfires can start quickly and threaten lives and homes within minutes, don’t wait for an official warning to take action.”
Make sure you have a route planned before you leave, along with an alternate route in case roads are blocked or if there is congestion.
Jason said fires are unpredictable and plans can fail, so a back up plan is essential and can save your life if you are caught in a fire.
“If you do not have a car to leave in, think about your public transport options or seek help from a neighbour,” Jason said.
“If you do have a car, practice packing it with all the essentials so you can leave quickly and efficiently and be sure to fill your car with fuel on high fire danger days.
“To minimise damage to your home, if you have time before you leave, close all doors and windows, move doormats and outdoor furniture away from the house, block downpipes and fill gutters with water, and leave the front gate open.
“If time permits, move stock or large animals to large paddocks with short grass.”
It’s important you check with police and fire authorities before returning home to ensure it is safe for you to do so.
Victorians should always stay informed through more than two sources of information and download the VicEmergency App for the most up to date warnings in their local area.
| Submitted by | CFA Media |
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