Planning ahead saves lives

Victoria is one of the most fire-prone areas on the world. Planning ahead can save you, your family and your property from being destroyed by fire.

The good rains of recent weeks will only serve to add to the rapid growth of grasses and undergrowth and possibly postpone temporarily what seems to be another long, hot and potentially dangerous summer.

Most of us are fortunate in that we do not live in high bushfire danger areas but the loss and destruction of property and livelihoods from all types of fires is a risk that we all have to accept and act upon.

As we enter the Fire Danger Period this year, it is very important to take the time to look around your house or farm and clean up any potential fire fuel. Overhanging branches should be lopped and gutters should be kept clear of all leaves and twigs, fallen bark should also be cleaned away from the base of trees, especially near buildings.

During the Fire Danger Period, which typically lasts from November through to April, special precautions need to be taken when working outdoors. The CFA recommends carrying a fire extinguisher or knapsack on all farm vehicles over this period.

The use of grinders, welders and chainsaws is permitted during the Fire Danger Period, but among other precautions it is essential to set up shields to block sparks, and to have at hand a reticulated water supply, a fire extinguisher or a knapsack water spray holding at least nine litres of water.

Stone guards and bash plates which protect areas such as bearings and exhaust systems under vehicles need to be cleared regularly. Often these collect grass and seeds and other flammable material can quickly ignite when these fuels heat up.

Many fires have been started from sparks when slashers have hit rocks or wire; it is good practice to watch recently slashed areas for any signs of smouldering grass.

With the advent of air-conditioned cabins for many farm vehicles it is possible for the operator to become isolated from weather conditions, noises and smells. It is good work practice to stop every now and then and get out of the air-conditioned comfort to keep an eye on outside influences particularly the temperature and wind conditions.

Kevin Brown from Gippsland Fire & Safety also recommends that all your existing fire fighting equipment is checked to make sure it is in good working condition. All hoses and pressure gauges on extinguishers should be checked; water in knapsacks should be pumped out and replaced. All tractors or machinery likely to come into contact with grass, stubble, weeds or other vegetation should be fitted with a nine litre stored pressure water extinguisher or a knapsack.

There is always the chance of fires over summer in Victoria, loss of life and property is a possibility every summer. By being aware of some of the things that can cause fires and taking action to minimise the chance of fires beginning, we are minimising this threat to ourselves, our loved ones and our properties.

More information on what you can and can’t do on during the Fire Danger Period and especially on days of Total Fire Ban is available from the CFA website www.cfa.vic.gov.au all fire extinguishers and fire fighting products can be purchased from Gippsland Fire & Safety Pty. Ltd. by phoning Kevin Brown on 0419 527 062 or check their website at www.gippslandfireandsafety. com.au