Bushfire Risk Not Over Warn Fire Authorities
Victoria’s fire authorities are warning that Friday 27 February is a day of extreme bushfire risk and that the bushfire danger is not over.
“Our message is very clear,” says Emergency Services Commissioner Bruce Esplin. “Friday is expected and forecast to be a very bad day. We need that message to be heard by the whole Victorian community.”
“There is no room for complacency; Friday is day for everybody to be aware and alert,” he said.
Mr Esplin warns this applies across Victoria, to all communities in urban, regional and fringe areas, not just those in areas already affected by fires or near going fires.
Anybody who sees a flame should report it to Triple Zero and make sure they have their bushfire plans ready. Bushfire information can be found at the Fireready website, or by calling the Victorian Bushfire Information Line on 1800 240 667.
People are reminded to take into account the possibility of reduced visibility and increased traffic on the roads.
CFA chief Russell Rees said the bushfires on Monday were a stark warning the emergency was not over.
“The whole state is at risk,” he said.
“All Victorians need to have a bushfire survival plan ready to go in case the worst happens, and they need to make some clear decisions very early in the piece as to whether they stay or pack up and leave potential trouble areas well before any trouble strikes. We don’t want people to panic,” Mr Rees said.
