Kit up to get ready

By Kath Gannaway
THE State Government and the CFA are urging Victorians to be prepared for the coming fire season with a Fire Ready Kit.
Hard copies of the new kit will be posted to residents in the identified 52 high risk locations and for those not on the list, including townships in the Shire of Yarra Ranges, access to the kit is via the Country Fire Authority (CFA) website.
People can also register for a hard copy of the Fire Ready Kit through the Victorian Bushfire Information Line on 1800 240 667.
Speaking during Fire Action Week, Premier John Brumby invited Victorians to take part in what he called a state-wide working bee to prepare for the summer fire season.
“The task for us all is to work together to prepare our state for a fire season that’s shaping up to be every bit as bad or worse than the season we’ve just experienced,” Mr Brumby said.
“These Fire Ready Kits will be an important tool in helping individuals, families and households in fire prone areas prepare – they will provide the most relevant information on how to best understand their environment, and prepare themselves and their property.
“I urge all Victorians, no matter where you live or what your fire experience has been, to get fire ready – identify your risk, prepare your fire plan, clean up your properties and get involved in your local fire preparation activities,” Mr Brumby said.
The selected 52 high risk areas are considered to be the most vulnerable because of geographical, environmental and community factors.
They include towns of large population near bushland, summer tourist areas, towns in or near bushland and suburbs in or near bushland and are in the process of having enhanced Township Protection Plans developed.
The Fire Ready Kit includes information on:
• Understanding your environment – what is my bushfire risk brochure;
• Household bushfire site assessment tool workbook (already available online at the CFA);
• Preparation of your property – making your home bushfire-ready brochure;
• Leaving early – prepare and act early to survive brochure;
• Defending your property – prepare and act early to survive brochure;
• Community fireguard brochure; and
• Radiant heat brochure.