CFA units prepare for fire season
The 16 brigades in the Baw Baw Group of the CFA joined for on the ground training as part of their preparations for the summer fire period.
They were called out to a mock grass and scrub fire at the site of the old Buln Buln East primary school and to the Willow Grove local command facility and the Neerim South fire station.
The exercise tested the skills of the volunteer firefighters on the fire ground and at incident command and control, Deputy Group Training Officer and Nilma North brigade member Ted Osler said.
He said the scenario was a vital part of brigade training ensuring members from different brigades can work together, operate equipment safely and efficiently manage objectives.
Brigades throughout the region have been planning and training for fire events with the CFA stating that the seasonal outlook is for “an above average fire season”.
Traditionally January and February are the periods of highest fire danger and weather conditions this year have created a potentially higher grasslands fire risk. Mr Osler said that while volunteers train throughout the year it was now time for property owners to get prepared.
“Clean up properties now while conditions are favourable and take steps to be prepared to know what to do if there is risk of fire”.
“It gives you and your property the best chance to survive during a fire even if you plan to leave early,” he said.
Some of the key actions recommended by the CFA are to keep trees, overhanging branches and shrubs near homes to a minimum, clear areas of leaves and twigs that can be ignited by embers and remove flammable items.
A plan for the safety of individuals and families is also stressed.
These include knowing when and how to leave and a safe place to go and to pack important documents, photographs, medications, money and clothes that can be taken with you at short notice.
Leaving early before a fire starts - not when you can smell smoke or see flames – is the safest option.