Fire education sessions heating up this summer
Last modified: 15 Feb 2023 10:09am
What should I do to protect myself, my family and property from fire?
That’s the question emergency services, Civil Defence and other organisations will be answering at two free presentations in West Melton and Dunsandel on 25 February and 12 March.
The Fire Risk public education events will have something for all ages, with fire trucks and police cars on-site for people to sit in, plus practical resources available to take home. A fun evacuation challenge will be set up, Mr Whippy will be there and afternoon tea will be provided afterwards. Attendees will be welcome to talk to the presenters and explore the displays.
The events have been developed to help locals understand what they can do to prevent fires on their properties, as well as what to do if a fire starts. Council Community Resilience Coordinator Sue Jenkins says whether you live on a farm, lifestyle block or in town, there will be something for everyone at the Fire Risk presentations. “There are so many simple things you can do to make your home safer, but sadly many people don’t stop to consider these before it is too late. We want to help people be informed so that we can protect our communities together. These presentations will be a fantastic opportunity to learn how to do that.”
Representatives from Fire and Emergency NZ, Civil Defence Emergency Management, NZ Police, Animal Control services, Orion and FMG will be at the presentations to share advice and answer questions. Sue says useful things people will learn include safe landscaping tips, how and where to store flammable materials, and how to protect pets and stock. “We’ll also discuss the importance of having at least 4-metres by 4-metres of clear space for fire trucks to enter your property and turn around. This is something many people overlook,” she adds.
The presentations will take place at West Melton Community Centre on Saturday 25 February, from 2–3pm, and Dunsandel Community Centre on Sunday 12 March from 2–3pm.