More than half of all Victorians living in high risk bushfire areas like the Dandenong Ranges believe they will get an official warning if threatened by a bush fire, according to a CFA survey.
The CFA’s bushfire community survey, conducted annually, also showed 36 per cent of respondents expected they would be told when to leave, meaning many Victorians could be leaving it too late to act.
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said while emergency services are well prepared and the state has an effective integrated warning system which includes the VicEmergency app and emergency broadcasters, there are circumstances when Victorians may not get a warning.
“Fires can spread within minutes. On hot, dry and windy days fires can start quickly and threaten lives and homes. You need to be prepared and paying attention to the weather conditions ahead of time,” Mr Heffernan said.
“The community needs to know their triggers and use their senses such as sight and smell as well as their common sense to enact their fire plan. Grassfires are prevalent this season and can move at speeds of up to 25km per hour and jump highways.”
This year’s fire season outlook indicates a lower risk of prolonged bushfires, however, grass fires remain a high risk across Victoria after rainfall and fuel growth during 2021.
Mr Heffernan said people shouldn’t drive into or through high risk areas on hot, dry and windy days.
“Plan an alternate route or delay your travel, if possible,” he said.
“Those living in or visiting regional Victoria should monitor conditions every day and have a bushfire safety plan in place.”
The survey showed 17 per cent believe they will definitely get help from the CFA if impacted by bushfires, while more than a third believed they are likely too.
“CFA’s mission is to save lives and property and of course we will do everything we can to respond to everyone who needs us, but there are times during major bushfires when we simply can’t get a truck to every house,” Mr Heffernan said.
“People need a plan – exactly what are you going to do for your family, loved ones, pets and other animals if a fire occurs and a fire truck may not be able to get there? If you have a plan, you can act to survive.”
Victoria’s integrated warning system includes the Vic Emergency website, app and social media channels, VicEmergency Hotline 1800 226 226, emergency broadcasters including ABC radio, Sky News TV, commercial radio and select community radio stations.
Warnings are issued when an incident is occurring, and you need to act. Make sure you understand the three levels of warnings and additional messages such as ‘Evacuate Now’:
• Advice – An incident is occurring or has occurred. Access information and monitor conditions.
• Warning (Watch & Act) – An emergency is developing nearby. Conditions are changing and you need to act now to protect yourself and your family.
• Emergency Warning – You are in imminent danger and need to act now.
• Evacuation – An evacuation is recommended or procedures are in place to evacuate.
