Get prepared and be safe this summer

The City of Whittlesea is urging residents to get prepared with the start of the fire season only a few weeks away.

With warmer and drier than average conditions this summer, bringing an increased risk of fire and of heatwaves Mayor Lawrie Cox urged residents to get fire ready now.

“If you live or work close to grassland, parks or paddocks, you could be at risk of fire this summer,” Cr Cox said.

“For your safety, you need to understand your risks and have a plan. Know what to do on hot, dry, windy days and plan for all situations.”

Cr Cox thanked all emergency services personnel for the vital role they play in the community during extreme weather, heat and fire events.

“Our emergency services personnel would say they were simply doing their job. But I want you to know that we will always be grateful to you for your tireless work especially during the dangerous situations in which you frequently work,” he said.

Meanwhile Council hosted a regional emergency management exercise last week (30 October) with 14 councils from the Northern and Western Metro Region.

Operation PAEN (Aboriginal word meaning water) focussed on a major flood incident and involved more than 180 personnel, emergency services organisations, staff and community organisations.

The exercise provided a safe learning environment for council staff to develop their roles and responsibilities.

For fire ready tips, check out Council’s website whittlesea.vic.gov.au/stayingsafe.

Find out more about upcoming fire restrictions, visit the CFA’s website at cfa.vic.gov.au