The information pack is part of a joint effort by Indigo Shire, the CFA and Department of Sustainability and Environment to help residents prepare for the coming fire season.

Indigo Shire’s Mayor, Cr Peter Graham OAM, said the Council fully supported Fire Action Week, a state-wide effort to get Victoria fire-ready.

“With this coming season expected to be worse than last summer when the February 7 fires claimed 173 lives, it is vital that residents have some practical information at hand as the summer approaches,” Cr Graham said.

“Our shire was fortunate compared to other communities on Black Saturday but being prepared includes having relevant information, which the Council is providing along with the CFA and DSE, and encouraging residents to take responsibility for their homes and properties.

“While weather conditions on February 7 were unprecedented, we live in one of the most fire-prone states in the world, amid 13 years of droughts and climate change. It is possible that we could see similar extreme conditions this season.”

Cr Graham said the bushfire information pack included tips for getting fire-ready, useful numbers and websites, an example of what one Indigo resident had done to help protect his home from bushfire, CFA information, and brochures from the DSE on preparing for the coming season. Packs will also be available at Council’s customer service centres throughout the shire.

“We wanted to get this information out now to help residents prepare. Fire Action Week is the time for people to identify their risk, start preparing bushfire survival plans and start clearing their properties,” he said.

Cr Graham said the Council was quick to respond to potential emergency situations.

“On February 7, a day we hope never to see again, Council activated the Municipal Emergency Co-ordination Centre at the Beechworth Seniors Citizens Centre by about 6.30pm, just after the fire had been reported,” he said.

“Individuals have a major role in the fire preparation effort and these information packs will help people prepare for the fire season well ahead of time.”

As part of Fire Action Week, Indigo Shire Council urges residents to develop fire plans for their family or street, decide if they will stay and defend or leave high risk areas on high fire danger days, know and understand the triggers for leaving before fire threatens, and plan where they will go and who they will inform.

“I urge people to take responsibility for managing their fire risk themselves.  A well prepared community is the first line of defence against potential fire threats,” Cr Graham said.

Cr Graham said residents should regularly check the CFA website as it was being updated constantly.

Inquiries:
Indigo Shire Council
03 5728 8000