Fire Danger Period Begins

Preparing for bushfire – Before

It is important that you understand bushfire risk in your area and plan.

Assess your property risk level: use various Household Bushfire Self-Assessment tools found online.
Understand the daily Fire Danger Ratings so you understand bushfire activity.
Write a plan: use the Fire Ready Kit noted earlier, including the Leaving Early Bushfire Survival Planning template.
Attend a local CFA Fire Ready Victoria briefing.
Prepare your property and household, including family, livestock and pets.
Decide what important items you want to take with you if you need to evacuate.
Check you have adequate building and contents insurance.
Get to know your neighbours and find out who may need extra help.

What you can do during a bushfire – During

Leaving early is always the safest option

During a bushfire, your home emergency plan is put into play. You should:

stay informed and monitor conditions
be prepared to evacuate
follow advice provided by emergency services.

If you cannot evacuate, take shelter in a well prepared home or move further away from the fire threat, e.g. further into the urban area.

If you have time, check your neighbours.

If you are suffering smoke exposure, seek medical advice or contact Nurse on Call on 1300 606 024.

Contact a family member or friend and tell them what you plan to do now.

Recovering from bushfire – After

Listen to ABC radio or other emergency broadcasters for updates.
Contact your insurance company immediately and take photos of damage.
Be aware of road hazards, such as debris and damaged roads, bridges or power lines.
Find out about relief and recovery assistance and information from Council on 9490 4222, the Victorian Bushfire Emergency Information line on 1800 226 226 or the Victorian Emergency Recovery Information line on 1300 799 232.
Be aware that burnt buildings can have hazards such as asbestos, ashes (especially from treated timbers) and damaged electrical wiring. Follow the advice of the Department of Health and Human Services: After a fire: returning home safely.
Apply for financial assistance by calling the Victorian Emergency Recovery Information Line on 1300 799 232.
Check on your neighbours and contact family and friends to let them know you are ok.

Resources

Radio & TV

ABC 774 AM, 3AW 693 AM, Plenty Valley FM 88.6 FM and Sky News TV.

Visit Emergency Management Victoria for a full list of broadcasters.

Online and social media

Telephone

In extreme situations your landline or mobile phone may be used to deliver a critical warning. For more information visit the Emergency Alert website.

VicEmergency hotline on 1800 226 226 or 1800 555 667 (National Relay Service).