With many Wyndham residents getting ready to enjoy the warm summer weather, Werribee Fire Brigade wants everyone to know it may be a time for relaxation but not carelessness.
In preparation for the higher temperatures and increased fire risk, the brigade has completed a four-week preparedness program that was heavily based around grass fire scenarios.
With fast-moving grassfires a hazard across peri-urban fringes, the firefighters refreshed skills in wildfire behaviour, grassfire attack, crew safety and survival procedures.
Brigade training coordinator Lieutenant Rohan Rizzoli said preparation was essential, especially given current fuel conditions and expected weather patterns.
“Werribee and the broader Wyndham area face significant grassfire risk every summer,” Mr Rizzoli said.
“Open paddocks, rapid fuel growth and nearby high-density suburbs mean a small fire can escalate quickly.
“The annual pre-summer training block, mandatory for all operational members, focused heavily on grass and bushfire response, the most significant threat facing the local area this fire season.
“Our firefighters need to be sharp, confident and ready to respond, this targeted training ensures we are prepared.
“Across the four weeks, our members undertook scenario-based drills including burn-over survival techniques, entrapment simulations, hose deployment, pump operations and crew leader decision making.
“Training also included vehicle burn over procedures, the use of CFA entrapment shelters and safety protocols designed to protect crews in rapidly changing conditions and online training modules.”
However, Mr Rizzoli said it is equally important that locals do what they can to prepare for disaster and understand the nature of fire season.
“Residents are encouraged to prepare their properties, understand local fire danger ratings and stay informed on high-risk days,” he said.
“With summer fast approaching, the Werribee Fire Brigade reassures the community that its volunteers are trained, equipped and ready.
“Preparation saves lives, ours and the community’s.
“We take that responsibility very seriously, and our members have shown outstanding commitment to being fire ready.”
The Werribee Fire Brigade also urges all Wyndham residents to review their fire safety plans and remain vigilant as conditions warm in the coming weeks.
