Bushfire outlook released

The Australasian Fire Authorities Council (AFAC) has released its Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for this summer, and fire risk is high in western Victoria.

Three years of La Nina summers bringing high rainfall, followed by a dry winter and spring, has led to above-normal fuel in western and central Victoria and along the Surf Coast, leading to increased fire potential.

Emergency Management Commissioner, Rick Nugent, says it’s vital for communities to understand local risks, keep up to date with Fire Danger Ratings, and prepare a fire plan in advance.

“We’ve already seen concurrent and converging emergencies over the past few months, reminding us that it’s important to remain prepared for all types of emergencies this summer. Our emergency services will continue to monitor any changes in conditions but it’s important for communities to understand their risk and have a plan in place in the event of a fire,” Commissioner Nugent said.

“Never rely on one source of emergency information. Download the VicEmergency app and tune in to your local emergency broadcaster.”

CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said Victoria was well-protected this fire season, despite the higher-than-normal fire risk.

“Alongside our interagency partners, CFA crews across the state have been working closely with their local areas and brigade members to ensure we are best prepared for the proposed conditions,” he said.

“While we’re ready to respond and support communities as we do every year, now is the time for Victorians to prepare their families, and their property and review their Bushfire Survival Plan.”

A mix of water bombing aircraft, air supervision and air intelligence gathering aircraft are positioned across the state, ready to support thousands of dedicated volunteers and career firefighters on the ground, trucks, heavy machinery, and plant equipment.

A new resource is also available, allowing Victorian communities to create a customised fire plan online, sharable with family and friends. The Online Fire Planner is available at www.fireplanner.vic.gov.au.