CFA members participated in a multi-agency training exercise at Wyndham Vale, where emergency crews were tasked with supporting residents during a mock grassfire.
Led by Victoria Police, crews were faced with a number of mock incident scenarios as a a result of a grassfire threat in the area.
More than 100 first responders from CFA, Victoria Police, SES, FFMVic and FRV participated in an evacuation drill to assist communities living on the urban fringe be better prepared for summer and develop an understanding of how to work together during an emergency.
“We’re ensuring residents living on the urban fringe know what to do in the case of a grass or bushfire in their area,” CFA Commander Sean Kennedy said.
“Being in a fire situation can be stressful and chaotic so it is vital people have a bushfire survival plan.
“Ahead of this fire season, sit down with your family or household and prepare your fire plan – if a fire does start in your area, it’s one less thing to worry about.”
The event educated the community on what to do in the case of a fire and was an opportunity for local emergency services to come together ahead of this year’s fire season.
With the assistance of Victoria Police and the SES, participating residents evacuated to a nearby park during the simulation exercise.
The CFA recommends those living or working next to grasslands, parks, paddocks or bush should remember:
– Grassfires can start anywhere and spread quickly.
– If you live next to grassland and a grassfire starts, walk at least two streets back from the fire.
– If you live two or three streets away from grassland and a grassfire starts, stay where you are, grassfires are unlikely to spread into built-up areas.
– Never drive if you can see smoke or fire. Thick smoke will make it hard to see and traffic jams and accidents are likely.
– Keep roads clear for emergency services
Details: website at cfa.vic.gov.au.
