VICSES volunteer undertakes community engagement activity (photo credit: VICSES)

Victorians will have access to a range of education materials to better understand warnings for bushfires, floods, storms and extreme heat.

The Australian Warning System education initiative launches today, and includes information on different hazard icons, warning levels and action statements to help the community understand what they need to do to stay safe in response to emergencies.

The three warning levels (advice, watch and act and emergency warning) are the same for bushfires, floods, storms and extreme heat.

The community education initiative features well-known ABC presenter, Justine Clarke, and the voice of Chilli from children’s TV show Bluey, Melanie Zanetti, and includes videos, story books, audio books, posters, social media content, radio advertisements and more.

It has been developed by Emergency Management Victoria, on behalf of Victoria’s emergency services. This follows the national implementation of the Australian Warning System coordinated by the Australasian Fire and Emergency Services Authorities Council (AFAC).

EMV has worked with emergency service agencies to ensure materials are fit for purpose, with a key focus on distribution across the state – particularly in high-risk areas. 

Quotes attributable to VICSES Chief Officer Operations Tim Wiebusch:

“It’s great to have a consistent warnings framework for all emergencies in place including for floods, storms and earthquakes.

“It’s important to always be prepared for the risk of summer storms and flooding and to take action on the statements within any warnings issued.

“You can understand your local flood risk and plan for what you’ll do by checking your local flood guide on the VICSES website.”

Quotes attributable to Emergency Management Commissioner Rick Nugent:

“It’s important Victorians understand the different types of warnings and hazards so they know what actions to take to keep themselves safe, before, during and after emergencies.

“We’ve already seen concurrent and converging emergencies over the past few months, reminding us that it’s important to remain prepared for all types of emergencies this summer.

“Never rely on one source of emergency information. Download the VicEmergency app and create a watch zone and tune in to your local emergency broadcaster.”

Quotes attributable to CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan:

“All ages of the community need to understand the Australian Warning System and to know their triggers to act.

“As we head into a potentially challenging fire season we ask the community to prepare their properties, have a fire plan in place and practice your plan with your household.

“Know the Fire Danger Ratings in your area and the areas you’re travelling into. Leaving early is your safest option on days of high fire risk.”

Quotes attributable to Forest Fire Management Victoria Chief Fire Officer Chris Hardman:

“You’re never too young to learn about what you need to do in an emergency – especially if you live in, work in or visit high-risk areas.
  
 “As we enter the bushfire season, I encourage all Victorians to take some time to know their risk and have a plan.

“And if you’re planning on visiting our state forests, please monitor conditions and check the VicEmergency app before you leave home to ensure you have the most up to date information.”