Prepare homes fordrier fire season

CRANBOURNE residents are urged to prepare themselves and their homes to deal with the threat of fire this summer.
“Longer, drier summer months mean all Victorians need to be ready to deal with the threat of fire,” Cranbourne MP Mr Perera said.
“Being prepared early means you can better deal with the risk of fire before and during an event. Have a fire plan and make a decision before summer to either stay and defend your property or leave the area before the fire threatens. If you decide to leave, make sure you do so before road travel becomes dangerous.”
A $2.2 million television, radio and outdoor advertising campaign launched last week would urge Victorians not to be complacent this summer, Mr Perera said.
The campaign will target tourists travelling through high-risk fire areas, Victorians living on the urban fringe, regional and rural communities, culturally and linguistically diverse and socially vulnerable communities, and people with livestock and pets.
Mr Perera also praised the emergency services, who are gearing up for the potentially difficult fire season.
“We are indebted to our local volunteers who not only protect our community but assist in other areas when needed throughout the fire season,” he said.
Important steps to take before summer begins include: ensuring vegetation and tree branches around the house are pruned, and that gutters are cleaned regularly to ensure they are leaf-free.
Residents can also help themselves by preparing a safety kit that includes medicine, spare clothing, sturdy shoes, torch, new batteries, hat and sunscreen, water bottle, animal carrier and leads.
Keep important documents like birth certificates, passports and wedding photos together in an easy to access location.
And make sure gas bottles are not stored under a verandah.
The government has provided record funding and resources, more than doubling the emergency services budget since 1999 from $254 million to $585 million this year.
For information on how to prepare for the fire season visit the CFA website or call the Victorian Bushfire Information Line on 1800 240 667.