Bush blaze meetings

– Ed Merrison
KNOX residents who enjoy natural beauty on their doorstep have been reminded they live on a potentially fiery frontier.
Knox City Council has warned those living close to bushland of their vulnerability to wild fire.
“I encourage all residents living near the foothills and near bushland reserves to reduce fire hazards on their own properties and have their fire plans ready,” Knox mayor David Cooper said.
He urged residents to attend one of a series of Country Fire Authority (CFA) street meetings in the municipality.
The meetings will be held in Boronia on Saturday, 2 December, The Basin on Sunday, 3 December, Upper Ferntree Gully on Sunday, 10 December and The Basin again on Wednesday, 13 December.
Cr Cooper said the council played a leading role in emergency situations and worked closely with the CFA and other emergency services.
“Preparation works in the bushland reserves are already underway and include fire breaks, slashing to reduce fuel, checks and improvements to track and access points,” he said.
“These works started early this year will be maintained until the end of summer.”
Cr Cooper said the council and the community could work together to reduce the risks and remain safe.
“This includes being vigilant and reporting any suspicious behaviour in parks to the police.”
People can go to the CFA website www.cfa.vic.gov.au or contact the council’s community safety officer on 9298 8000 (email: steve.pascoe@knox.vic.gov.au) for more advice.