Four seasons in one day
The term “four seasons in one day” has never been more apparent for those living in Melbourne and Victoria, as what was expected to be one of our hottest summers yet continues to deliver wet, cold and wintery conditions.
But it’s this exact reason that we need to ensure preparation for potential bushfires remains top of mind.
Despite there being no significant bushfires in Victoria so far this summer, weather systems can develop extremely quickly, meaning it can go from cold and rainy to hot and dry within a very short period.
If cold weather and rain continues, it will mean increased growth of grassland and shrubs which can quickly turn into fuel for future bushfires.
Given the hottest day in Victoria last year didn’t come until February 17, there is still ample time for devastating bushfires to start.
Crime Stoppers Victoria emphasised the importance of thinking before you start a fire this summer through its recent, ‘You Light It, You Own It’ campaign.
The message from Crime Stoppers Victoria Chief Executive Stella Smith remains more relevant than ever, “it is your responsibility to ensure your fire doesn’t turn into a devastating bushfire.”
The message behind the campaign was to remind Victorians to stop and think before they light a fire, with any uncontrolled bushfire remaining the responsibility of the person who originally lit it.
“Bushfires can start from actions as innocent as lighting a campfire or using farm machinery and power tools on a hot, dry and windy day.”
“It doesn’t matter how a fire is started or if it’s accidental – the result is the same.
“Bushfires can devastate Victorian communities, claiming lives, displacing families and impacting livelihoods.”
With the summer forecast still expected to bring some very hot days – this message should not be forgotten.
Ensuring you don’t light a fire that could escape from you is of vital importance as we head into the coming months, with complacency being one of the biggest dangers for Victorians aside from an actual bushfire itself.