CFA reminder to residents

An experienced Country Fire Authority member has reminded Wimmera residents to have a safety plan this fire season.

CFA District 17 community engagement officer Kevin Sleep said the state had another six weeks of summer and people should have a safety plan if confronted with a fire.

“The fundamental thing is to have a plan and practice it and also have a working smoke detector,” he said.

“Detectors more than 10 years old should be replaced – now the batteries can last for 10 years.”

Mr Sleep said smoke-detector technology had developed significantly over the years.

“There are now wireless smoke detectors, where you can have three of them emplaced at once, so if one goes off, they will all go off,” he said.

Mr Sleep said people mowing lawns or slashing grass should plan to do so on cool days to prevent the risk of fire.

“If you are mowing or slashing, have a water cart and make sure to download the Emergency Vic App,” he said.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER BE PREPARED: Country Fire Authority District 17 community engagement officers Kevin Sleep, left, and Chris Carey want people to make sure they are ready incase of fire in the home. The duo set up a community information stall at Horsham Plaza to help spread their message.