Community
11 October, 2024
Survey finds complacency over fire risk
A RECENT Country Fire Authority (CFA) survey revealed 45 per cent of Victorians living in bushfire-prone areas were not concerned about bushfire safety despite being at increased risk.
The survey also found that people in these areas were waiting too long to leave in the event of a fire, putting themselves and their families in jeopardy.
The CFA’s annual Bushfire Community Survey revealed that 22 per cent of residents did not interact with CFA within the last six months because they felt they did not require more information or were unaware of CFA’s programs and resources.
CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan expressed concern over these statistics, urging all residents in fire-risk areas to take their safety more seriously and begin preparation now.
“Many Victorians may not be aware they’re living in a bushfire-prone area but with fire season fast approaching, it’s vital that Victorians know their level of risk and plan accordingly,” Mr Heffernan said.
“It may be a result of people being new to the area, or who have not experienced a significant fire in the past, and are unaware of the dangers.
“CFA has resources available to help people prepare, but it’s vital that the community actively seeks out this information before it’s too late.”
Alarmingly, a further 30 per cent of respondents would delay leaving during a bushfire event, with 14 per cent planning to assess the situation and 16 per cent intending to wait for instructions from emergency services.
Twelve per cent stated they would stay and defend their property.
“These are dangerous decisions,” Mr Heffernan said.
“Bushfires can spread unpredictably and quickly. Waiting to assess the situation or hoping for instructions from emergency services can result in tragedy. The safest option is always to leave early.”
He added that while CFA was well-prepared to respond to emergencies, it was crucial to remember that bushfire safety was a shared responsibility.
“We can’t guarantee that every home will be reached in time during a bushfire,” Mr Heffernan said.
“Every resident needs to have their own bushfire survival plan and take proactive measures to protect their property.”
The AFAC Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Spring 2024 has further highlighted the need for residents to be fire prepared.
Current indications suggest the west and southwest of the state face increased fire risk this coming season due to a notably dry autumn and winter.
“Considering the outlook, we are urging residents in western and southwestern Victoria to stay updated with the latest warnings this fire season,” Mr Heffernan said.
“The increased fire risk in these regions means that understanding and responding to fire danger ratings is more critical than ever.
“Don’t drive into or through high-risk areas on hot, dry, and windy days. Plan an alternate route or postpone your travel if possible.”
The CFA urges all residents to have a clear bushfire survival plan in place – know your triggers for leaving early and ensure that all household members know what to do in case of a fire.
Across the rest of the state, Victorians can expect a warmer-than-average spring with an uncertain rainfall outlook.
While the fire risk is considered normal, it’s important not to be complacent; fires can still occur anytime and anywhere when temperatures rise and vegetation is dry.
