The CFA’s annual Bushfire Community Survey showed that 30.9 per cent would wait for emergency authorities to tell them what to do, 28.6 per cent would stay until they felt threatened, and 13.8 per cent would stay to defend their property.
The results have deeply concerned CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan.
“Victoria has had quieter fire seasons the last few years, but now is not the time for the community to become complacent,” he said.
“Fires spread quickly, and they threaten lives and properties. The community needs to be prepared, and they need to know their triggers to act ... don’t rely on one source of information.”
Mr Heffernan is advising Victorians to show caution as the state moves into warmer months.
“On hot, dry and windy days, don’t drive into or through high-risk areas. Plan an alternate route or postpone your travel if possible. Continue to monitor conditions every day,” he said.
Victorians have several sources of news for fire updates.
They include the VicEmergency website, app and social media channels, VicEmergency Hotline 1800 226 226 and emergency broadcasters, including ABC radio, Sky News TV, commercial radio and select community radio stations.
Additionally, the CFA is asking Victorians to take the following precautions.
- Move your winter woodpile away from the house or sheds.
- Prune tree branches so they are not overhanging the roof or touching walls.
- Clear your gutters.
- Keep grass shorter than 10cm.
- Remove leaves and twigs from around your property.
- Test anything that is part of your fire plan, such as sprinklers, pumps and generators.
- Check that your home and contents insurance is current and includes a level of cover in line with current building standards and regulations.
- If you are burning off to remove green waste, register your burn-off online at Fire Permits Victoria at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au or call ESTA on 1800 688 511.
- Make sure your household has a bushfire survival plan.
For more information regarding creating a bushfire plan, go to www.cfa.vic.gov.au/bushfireplan
The following warnings and messages you may receive in the event of a bushfire
• Advice: An incident is occurring or has occurred. Access information and monitor conditions.
• Warning (watch and 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.
