Clonbinane Rural Fire Brigade - February 2019
Brigade Activity
We have been very fortunate in this extreme fire weather not to have any significant incidents over the last month. Well done to the community for mindful fire safe behaviour this summer.
A lot of work goes into preparation for high-risk day responses. Rosters are prepared; firefighters often remain at home ready for a quick response to their pager call outs. The fire trucks are prepared and are always operational. On hot days, firefighters must ensure that they well hydrated and that their firefighting kits are ready to go.
The Current Fire Danger
Our biggest fire weather threat is in February until we get decent rainfalls. This season high fire danger may extend into autumn. A lightning storm or human error can create numerous fires in a very short period. The good news is that your local brigade is well trained and equipped for most situations and we are fully backed up by the full resources of the CFA. Be vigilant and not complacent -continue with your fire plan.
Your Fire Plan
Continue to discuss your fire plan with your family and neighbours. Evaluate the risk to your property on a daily basis, looking at your fire weather forecast and environment around your home. High hot winds have brought more leaves off the trees. Do you need to clean your gutters again? Have a quick check. Is there additional rubbish lying about that needs to go tip bound? How is your property access to allow fire trucks easy entry and turn around?
Grass slashing, Angle Grinders and Chainsaws
Many grass fires are started by heat generating machinery or sparks from slashers, brush cutters or lawn mowers hitting rocks or metal. Do not use this equipment on Total Fire Ban days. On higher fire risk days start your work early in the day when the wind is less and the humidity is higher. Always have an extinguisher or fire suppression equipment in position where you are working –before you start work. Ensure that you have your phone handy to call emergency services if needed.
Black Saturday 10 Year Anniversary
Many people in our community were affected by the events of the Black Saturday fires ten years ago. Lives were lost, people were injured, homes destroyed, pets killed and stock lost. In most Black Saturday affected areas there are 40 percent of the community that did not reside in the area at that time.
People have dealt with the trauma of Black Saturday in varying ways. Many have moved on and do not wish to look over their shoulder to see where they have come from. Some still suffer post-traumatic health conditions. Those that went through similar circumstances have a good understanding of the demons these people face and have empathy for their struggles. Many people have ploughed in a lot of effort to rebuild and support others in our community over the last ten years.
A big thank you must go out to all of those local heroes that have nurtured others, helped to rebuild our community and to make it a safer and more enriched place to live.
Clonbinane community will have a Black Saturday Commemorative Dinner on Saturday 9 February. Clonbinane CFA will be holding an informal dinner the next day for its members as a mark of respect and to remember the achievements and strengths of our brigade over the last decade.
Please contact the brigade if you require any bushfire survival information or check out the CFA website.
Checkout the CFA website and apps for the latest fire weather conditions and fire activity updates. www.cfa.vic.gov.au
Cheers -Ross Hibbert- Captain