Issues of Interest

Volunteers Urge Preparation - Not Panic

Victoria’s firefighting volunteers have moved to reassure the public, calling for an attitude of preparation, not panic, as we go into the 2009/10 fire season.

Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria (VFBV) Executive Officer Allan Monti said many Victorians are feeling understandably anxious after the tragic events of last February.

“The general public and the media have a heightened awareness of the dangers of fire and the potential for it to affect their district,” Mr Monti said.

“And fire may be unpredictable as to where and when it will strike, but we as a community still make the decision as to how we respond to its threat,” he said.

“VFBV, representing the state’s CFA volunteers, is urging all Victorians to make up their minds to meet the fire season with preparation rather than panic.”

That preparation should involve removing possible fuel around the home and packing a travel kit for the family in case the need arises to leave, but it also involves the decision to approach the fire season with knowledge and action rather than fear.

“CFA volunteers are often portrayed as heroes and some do find themselves in the position of being just that, but the real difference between a firefighter and an ordinary member of the public is training, knowledge and experience,” he said.

“And whether you are in a position to join us as a volunteer or not, VFBV urges you to help to fight fire in your own way, by gathering the knowledge to protect yourself, your family and your home or business,” Mr Monti said.

“By making the decision to go into the fire season with preparation, not panic, you will be helping Victoria to confront fire as a community.”

“The volunteers urge every Victorian to visit the CFA’s website (www.cfa.vic.gov.au) or VFBV’s site (www.vfbv.com.au), heed the advice given through the local media, or talk to a local volunteer about how they can prepare.”
 

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