WE'RE getting closer to the end of summer, but the fire risk is still high.
Early figures show CFA has responded to more than 2000 vegetation fires in the past six weeks.
This season brigades have responded quickly and decisively to suppress grassfires where they occur; this vigilance will continue.
Grassfires start quickly and travel faster than you can run.
In no time, they can destroy properties and even kill. Monitor conditions and stay informed when you’re on the road.
Fiskville information update
Following recent reports about the historical use of chemicals at Fiskville Training College, we understand CFA members may have concerns and want more information.
The independent investigation is well under way with a huge records search and significant series of interviews conducted with CFA members who have responded to the Independent Investigator, Professor Robert Joy.
To register for CFA information updates or for medical advice through CFA, call 1800 628 616 or email fiskvilleprojectteam@cfa.vic.gov.au
State championships
CFA members across the state are preparing for the upcoming State Championships.
The Urban Juniors competition will be held this week at Horsham (25– 26 February), Urban Seniors at Mooroopna (10 –12 March) and Rurals at Colac (31 March–1 April).
Support for CFA members in need
Recently we marked the third anniversary of the 2009 bushfires, the 29th anniversary of Ash Wednesday and the first year since the 2011 floods. While many people have moved on, for others this is still a very difficult time.
CFA will never forget the loss of those 173 lives in the 2009 bushfires, those lost in the Ash Wednesday fires and equally the efforts of CFA members in saving life and property.
Welfare support services are available for CFA members and their families through the Rostered Duty Officer, Officer in Charge, Line Manager, Peer Coordinator or via the CFA Welfare line on 1800 628 616.
Better access to training
New training initiatives have been introduced to help brigades access the latest learning materials, simplify planning and delivery of skills maintenance training, plus online recording of this training. These include:
• Skills Maintenance Drills Folder – Provides a series of drills that will assist brigades plan and conduct skills maintenance relevant to their community risk profile.
• WebTRAIN – A web-based program to record and maintain members’ skills maintenance training online.
• Training Materials Online – Current endorsed training materials available online.
• Emergency Services Off-Road Driving DVD – Joint emergency services DVD providing practical advice on how to deal with a range of routine hazards for driving in adverse conditions.
These new initiatives have been developed with signifi cant input from our volunteers and aligns with the outcomes of the Jones Inquiry.
