Latrobe Local News:
New Municipal Fire Prevention Officer Warns Against Complacency

Latrobe City’s newly appointed Municipal Fire Prevention Officer, Lance King, has warned against complacency against fire threat this summer

By Latrobe City Council - 5th February 2002 - Back to News

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Latrobe City’s newly appointed Municipal Fire Prevention Officer, Lance King, has warned against complacency against fire threat this summer, with hot weather traditionally still likely throughout February, the month that most severe bushfires in Victoria have occurred.

Mr King made his remarks after inspecting a number of properties throughout the municipality as part of his new position, which entails monitoring private and municipal land throughout Latrobe City and advising on how to best control and manage the fire risks involved.

Mr King said that in spite of significant publicity over Christmas of the enormous damage done by the Sydney fires, the number of homes lost and the effect on livelihoods and wildlife, there still tended to be some complacency and a misguided belief that it ‘can’t happen here’.

"The fact of the matter is that we live in a bushfire prone area and given the right weather conditions together with the significant amount of tinder dry grass and bushland in rural areas, fires that occur can quickly get out of control and cause extensive loss. We can all minimize the damage that can result from any fires by taking simple measures on our own properties that restrict the ability of fire to spread," Mr King said.

Mr King said that as well as managing and reviewing the fire hazard inspection program for Council and establishing plans for the protection and enhancement of public open space and roadside reserves, he would be working in consultation with the Municipal Fire Prevention Committee and other relevant fire combating authorities, to prepare community education programs.

"It is everyone’s responsibility to work together for a fire safe community, such as making sure we know the fire danger level for that day and the precautions to take if we are setting out to enjoy an outing or barbecue in our many parks, reserves and bush settings. It’s also important that we all undertake the work necessary around the home, and yard to minimise the opportunity for fire to occur," Mr King said.

"Local industry can also play a major role in our community with regard to fire prevention, by being responsible and diligent in keeping their workplaces clean and tidy, to protect against fire and showing the way for the rest of the community to follow their example."

Mr King stressed that the Fire Danger Period for Latrobe City was now in force, and permits were now required to burn off. Permits can be obtained from Mr King or from Latrobe City’s Local Laws Officers.

Mr King can be contacted at Latrobe City with any concerns relating to the protection of life and property from fire within the municipality, between Tuesday and Thursday each week, telephone 1300 367 700.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: support@gippslander.com

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