To stay and defend or not?
This fire season has been a busy one for the Cherry Gardens brigade we have sent multiple firefighters to Queensland, New South Wales, York Town, Kangaroo Island and round the clock trips to Cudlee Creek. The brigade is made up of truly remarkable people who put their own lives and at time safety on hold to go and help others is distress.
I hope everyone has their bush fire action and puts it into place on fire ban days as there are many months to go before this fire season is over. Even on days of severe fire danger if a fire starts and takes hold, it will be hard for fire fighters to bring under control. Under extreme conditions homes that are well prepared may be defended, but the safest place is away from the area.
Under catastrophic fire conditions home are not designed to withstand a fire in these conditions. The fire will not be able to be controlled until cooler conditions prevail. Fire crews will focus on saving life and protecting areas where people are gathered.
The Country Fire Service encourages everyone to have a bush actions plan.
What does your plan look like?
Are you physically fit enough to face a front approaching your home?
Are you emotionally strong and fit?
Do have the right equipment and clothing?
Do you have an independent water source? The mains water may run out.
Do you have fire pumps? The electricity may be turned off.
Are you prepared for the smoke to black out the sun? Visibility will be reduced by the smoke.
The fire will be hot, do have a solid structure in which you can protect yourself from the radiant heat?
Before the fire front comes spot fire will move ahead of the fire kilometres in front, embers may rain down from every direction. Do not wait until conditions get bad and then flee, if you are going to leave, the earlier you leave the safer you will be. These are just some things you need to think about if you are going to stay and defend your home, in addition to having a well thought out plan to defend you home.
For information visit the CFS website www.cfs.sa.gov.au
Thank you to everyone who has supported us and donated to us during the current fire season, your efforts are greatly appreciated.
Lawrie Linggood
Captain
Cherry Gardens Country Fire Service
We train every Monday night for those who may be interested in what we do.
To report suspicious behaviour call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
For all other emergencies dial 000 and ask for “Adelaide, Fire” “South Australia”
See the CFS website for more information, and stay safe.