The latest Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for spring suggests that Victorians can expect a drier and warmer spring, with a high chance of an earlier start to the fire season in the central, western and northern parts of the state.
Minister for Emergency Services Jaclyn Symes joined the newly appointed Emergency Management Commissioner Rick Nugent at the State Control Centre to remind Victorians to prepare their properties now for the upcoming high-risk fire season. The central area covers greater Geelong.
Mr Nugent is no stranger to emergencies, having led police operations as State Police Commander for the 2022 October floods and the pandemic response during his distinguished 35-year career with Victoria Police.
Mr Nugent also played key leadership roles in the operational response to the 2019-20 Victorian bushfires, major sporting events and other critical incidents.
Victoria’s drier-than-average conditions are expected to continue, following below average rainfall across much of the state during winter. The Country Fire Authority (CFA) is heavily focused on preparedness as the potential for grass fires is expected to be higher after three years of wet La Niña conditions. Victorians should start to prepare their properties and continue to keep on top of fast-growing grass.
“I look forward to my term as Commissioner and working with all our great people across the sector and the community to keep Victorians safe before, during and after emergencies,” Mr Nugent said.
“If you haven’t already, download the VicEmergency app and know where you can receive emergency information, including your local emergency broadcasters.”
“Mr Nugent has provided exceptional leadership in community safety and brings decades of experience to a role that is of vital importance to the safety of Victorians,” Minister for Emergency Services Jaclyn Symes said.
“We need to do everything we can to keep communities safe this fire season and bushfire preparedness is the best way to do it.”
Emergency Management Victoria (EMV) is working with agencies to ensure incident management teams and Level three control centres across the state are ready to go.
Having a bushfire survival plan with your family, reducing the vegetation around your home by mowing lawns and clearing gutters are some of the most important things you can do to prepare for the high-risk period for fires.
For more information on how to prepare for fires and other emergencies download the VicEmergency app or visit emergency.vic.gov.au.
