Queenscliff taking lead on Fire Equipment Maintenance Program

A volunteer checks a fire extinguisher to make sure it is in good working order. Photo: CFA

THE CFA is encouraging more brigades to follow the lead of Queenscliff and Point Lonsdale and become involved with the Fire Equipment Maintenance (FEM) program to help them continue to provide the best outcomes to their communities.

FEM is a vital fire prevention activity and an important income source for many CFA brigades.

Brigades providing FEM services visit businesses and facilities in their communities, checking fire extinguishers, fire blankets, fire hose reels and lay flat hose, ensuring they are maintained and ready to use in an emergency.

This maintenance is legally required for building owners and occupiers and businesses pay a fee to have CFA complete this maintenance, with the funds reinvested into the brigade.

Queenscliff Fire Brigade, with Point Lonsdale, reignited their FEM services last year, and 1st Lieutenant Paul Hicks said the benefits were far reaching.

“The benefits of providing FEM services in our community are three-fold: fundraising, community engagement and situational awareness.

“Providing the service strengthens our ties with the community socially and economically.”

Brigades use FEM revenue to fund equipment, vehicles, tools, building works, training and cultural activities.

“Every dollar we raise through FEM or donated by the community is invested back into the brigade to deliver the best outcome for members and our community,” 1st Lieutenant Hicks said.

“Delivering FEM also plays a critical role in our community engagement efforts, allowing members to provide information, address concerns and promote fire safety while on site. That direct contact gives the community confidence in our brigade.

“By visiting local businesses and facilities we also gain valuable insight into each location, its fire protection systems and potential hazards.”

With more than 265 brigades and 1,350 accredited members statewide, the past year has been one of their busiest and most successful for the CFA, with more than $3.8 million raised.