CFA opens up to help community prepare for bushfire season

FIRE Action Week may be over, but the CFA open day program is continuing across the state to support Victorians in preparing for the bushfire season.

Locally, open days will be held next month in Geelong West, Grovedale, Queenscliff, Anglesea, Lorne and Barwon Downs.

CFA Chief Officer Steve Warrington said CFA open days were the perfect opportunity for communities to learn more about what brigades do to keep everyone safe.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity for local communities to meet the men and women who work hard to keep them safe from fire and help out in times of emergency.”

He said the open days were also a great opportunity for people to find out how to best protect themselves, their family and property from fire this summer.

“Now is the time to prepare your family and home in the lead up to summer and we’re here to help – members will be on hand to provide a range of fire safety information.”

Mr Warrington said taking steps to get prepared before the fire season meant people would know what to do when they were at risk.

“Preparing your property means you minimise the chance of property damage during a fire, even if you plan to leave early. A big clean up before the fire season can make a huge difference to the safety and survival of your home in a bushfire.

“You also need to plan and prepare for your safety. Understand your risk and plan ahead. Know what to do on hot, dry, windy days when fires will start and spread quickly. Plan for all situations by talking to your family and friends about how you’ll know when to leave, where you’ll go and how you’ll get there.”

At a typical open day, brigade members will also be on hand with a range of fire safety information and advice, and fun activities such as demonstrations or a visit by Captain Koala.

For a map of open day events held by brigades across Victoria, head to cfa.vic.gov.au/openday.