Put your safety first in the fire season
MEDIA RELEASE - Put your safety first in the fire season
October 2016
The Shire of Manjimup has released the annual Firebreak and Fuel Hazard Reduction Notice for 2016/2017.
The notice outlines the requirements placed on landowners to reduce fuel loads surrounding properties within the Shire of Manjimup, and the adequate placement and maintenance of building protection zones and firebreaks. These conditions need to be in place by 11 December 2016 for Zone 8 which is Manjimup, Pemberton and Quinninup, and by 18 December 2016 for Zone 6, being Northcliffe and Walpole.
Shire President Wade DeCampo explains that it is up to land owners to take responsibility, assess their own risk and take appropriate measures to minimise that risk. "The atrocious consecutive fire events over the last two years in Lower Hotham, Northcliffe, Esperance and Waroona should be enough for us all to realise that there is no point in waiting until tragedy strikes to be a hero. The heroic act really happens now by ensuring you've implemented the necessary measures to keep you, your family and your belongings safe, and by having a Bushfire Survival Plan," said Cr Decampo.
"Something I can't emphasise enough is that if you're unsure about anything, all you need to do is ask. There are resources available to help you; we are all in this together."
The Shire recommends keeping the notice handy as it details the numbers of the Chief Bushfire Control Officer and all bushfire brigade fire control officers. "These volunteer brigades play an invaluable role in our rural communities by assisting with both risk proofing and in the event of an emergency," said Cr DeCampo.
Restricted and prohibited burning periods are also provided on the notice, which Cr DeCampo describes as "enforced to protect, not to inconvenience."
The release of the Shire's notice, which is mailed to every rate payer within the Shire of Manjimup, coincides with Bushfire Action Month which is promoted annually by the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES).
To download the Firebreak and Fuel Hazard Notice, see regulated burning times and find a link to the newly released 'Emergency WA' website, visit www.manjimup.wa.gov.au/bushfire
Click here to view the media release about the new 'Emergency WA' website, replacing the alerts and warnings on the DFES and Department of Parks and Wildlife website.s
-ENDS-
Authorised by Andrew Campbell, Chief Executive Officer, Shire of Manjimup.
Contact: 9771 7777
Contact Gina Nieuwendyk, Public Relations Officer, Shire of Manjimup
Contact: 9771 7777
Contact for comment: Wade DeCampo, Shire President.
Contact: 0427 094 081
