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Black Saturday Anniversary a reminder

Black Saturday Anniversary a timely reminder

With the first anniversary of Black Saturday approaching, Surf Coast Shire is advising residents to remain vigilant about bushfire preparation and staying safe during heat waves.

Mayor Libby Coker said residents and visitors needed to continue to heed fire danger ratings advice and property owners needed to ensure their homes are prepared, with fine vegetation continually cleared out and all  undergrowth at the base of trees removed.

“We have had recent rain, so it’s important to ensure lawns are mowed as grass that grows after summer rain will dry out quickly,” Cr Coker said.

“People also need to be aware of their bushfire survival plans and consider what measures they need to take to prepare for heatwaves. We must continue to live the mantra of plan, act and survive.”

In issuing the warning, Cr Coker extended best wishes to all communities that the tragic Black Saturday fires affected.

“We wish everyone involved in rebuilding lives and communities all the best in 2010, including residents, businesses and all involved in local government, which has an enormous task during and after disasters; as well as times of community stress.”

During February, property owners can also:
• Practice and review their bushfire survival plans.
• Ensure they have decided when they need to relocate, and where they will go.
• Continue their property maintenance to ensure fire fuels are reduced.

Visitors should be aware of arrangements at their accommodation and remain aware of bushfire warning ratings.

“The advice on Code Red - Catastrophic fire danger days remains; to leave, and leave early to avoid congestion on the roads. This is particularly important in communities with single access roads, like the Great Ocean Road,” Cr Coker said.

Meanwhile, Council is also advising anyone at high risk from heatwaves to take extra care during February; traditionally the hottest month on the Surf Coast.

Groups including people aged over 75 years, families with children aged under four, people who are heavily overweight, people living alone, people with disabilities or people in improvised dwellings are urged to take extra care.

“People who might suffer from heat stress and don’t have access to air conditioning, should consider going to places like the Torquay Library, shopping centres or movie theatres to seek shelter.

“These places outside areas of high fire risk can also provide shelter on Catastrophic Fire Danger days, where local residents in fire prone areas are urged to evacuate.

“If you know of people who might be at risk in heatwave conditions, please check in on them. Council will be taking measures to assist its Home and Community Care clients during any extreme heat conditions.”

Council has a heatwave plan that is evaluated annually; which includes a number of preventative actions Council will take to reduce the impact of heatwaves – including preparation for bushfires.