Wartook Fire Ready Guide available

Published on 01 December 2023

The Wimmera Emergency Management Team (WEMT) has sent out a Fire Ready Guide to all property owners in Wartook, an area of extreme fire risk.

The guide contains vital information on how to plan and prepare for bushfires and grassfires, which pose a significant threat to the Wartook community.

The guide also includes a fire map of the area, emergency contact details, and an overview of the new Australian Fire Danger Rating System.

WEMT Project Officer Sue Frankham said the guide was part of a broader effort to help Wartook residents be self-reliant for 72 hours during an emergency.

“We also enclosed a Three Steps to Emergency Preparedness brochure, a Guide to Property Preparation from the CFA, and some general information about what you can and can’t do during declared fire danger periods,” Ms Frankham said.

“We want to make sure that everyone in Wartook is aware of the fire risk and knows what to do before, during and after a fire. Being prepared can make a big difference in saving lives and properties.”

Ms Frankham said the WEMT was part of the Wimmera Emergency Management Resource Sharing Partnership, which aims to provide safer response and coordinated relief and recovery to emergencies across Horsham Rural City and Hindmarsh, West Wimmera and Yarriambiack Shire Councils.

“The WEMT works closely with emergency services such as the CFA and SES to support our communities in times of need. We encourage everyone to follow their advice and stay informed of the fire situation in their area,” she said.

Ms Frankham urged anyone with questions, comments or queries in relation to the fire ready resources to contact her via email on sue.frankham@hrcc.vic.gov.au.