Fire service stresses importance of plan

Fire season is at its peak and with the recent spikes in bushfire alerts in the area, South Hedland Volunteer Fire and Rescue services encourages locals to create a bush fire plan for their households.

While the season has been in full swing, SHVFRS captain Vaughan Price said it was a longer season in comparison to the south of the State and would continue until the first big rains.

“There are two forms locals can get information about incoming bush fires,” he said.

“Listening to the radio is a big one and watching media alerts on the Department of Fire and Emergency Services websites.”

Mr Price, along with DFES, encourages locals to be prepared and organise a plan for themselves and their loved ones.

“Having a bushfire survival plan will help you take action and avoid making last-minute decisions that could prove deadly during a bushfire,” he said.

Not only preparing yourself, but your home as well is essential to getting through a bushfire, Mr Price said.

“Simple actions like pruning trees, clearing roof gutters and clearing away dead plants can make a world of difference if your home becomes under attack of a fire,” he said.

In addition, a DFES spokeswoman has recommended locals have an emergency kid ready to go in case of the event of an evacuation or communication is cut off during a bush fire. “This kit would include essential supplies such as a radio, spare batteries, a torch, first aid kit, woollen blanket, water and non-perishable food,” she said.

If you see smokes or flames, act immediately, call 000 and put your bushfire survival plan into action, she said.

DFES has a new Emergency WA website with better access to emergency warnings and maps on mobile phones and digital devices.

SHVFRS holds a weekly training day on Tuesday afternoons or go onto the DFES website and follow the prompts.

For more information on what to do in the event of a fire, DFES can be called on 13 3337 or SHVFRS on 9173 1118.