Services prepare for high risk season
Emergency services across Gippsland are preparing for a high-risk weather season.
Multi-agency briefings were held across Gippsland this month for local services, with senior Victorian operational personnel in attendance.
Briefings were personalised and specific and informed emergency services on localised bushfire, flood and storm outlook risks.
Deputy Emergency Management Commissioner Chris Stephenson said the multi-agency briefings were an important part of preparedness activities.
“As a sector, we’re continuing our preparedness into the higher-risk weather season, not only for the risk of fires but also for floods and storms. It’s important that Victorians continue their preparations too,” he said.
“Good information will always lead to good decisions. It’s important to know where you can get emergency information, including the VicEmergency app, VicEmergency Facebook and Twitter, and know who your emergency broadcasters are.”
The third consecutive La Nina event has led to a wet spring and early summer. however, it is still important to prepare for the summer season.
Fire Rescue Victoria Commissioner Ken Block said summer season preparedness was a shared responsibility between the emergency management sector and the Victorian community.
“It’s important you understand your fire risk and get prepared now, don’t wait until a fire starts. Make sure you and everyone in your household knows what to do during the summer period, when fires can start and spread quickly.
“If you live near grasslands, you need to understand the risks associated with fast-moving grassfires. If a fire starts in grasslands near your home, walk two streets back and keep clear of responding emergency services.”
State Emergency Service chief officer operations Tim Wiebusch urged Victorians to be careful during the high-risk weather season and reminded people that it can take just 15cm of water to float a small car.
“While we are preparing for a high-risk season, it’s vital Victorians never drive on flooded roads,” he said.
There is a new fire danger rating system in place this summer, called Australian Fire Danger Rating System. There now only four danger levels, and each is linked to an action.
The first level is Moderate, which means people should plan and prepare, High (prepare to act), Extreme (take action now to protect your life and property), and Catastrophic (for your survival, leave bush fire risk areas).
Victorians can familiarise themselves with the new fire danger rating system and check the ratings daily this summer on the VicEmergency app or the CFA website.