VIC:Red Cross bushfire plan now online

AAP General News (Australia)
02-01-2012
VIC:Red Cross bushfire plan now online

MELBOURNE, Feb 1 AAP - Victorians who rely on others to help them leave their homes
before a day of high fire risk can now fill out a Red Cross fire plan on line - as can
those helping them.

Red Cross state manager for emergency services Adam Dent says the Bushfires - Preparing
to leave early plan - is designed for people who need extra support to leave a fire zone
early.

"Anyone who needs additional support to leave early well before the potential onset
of a bushfire would benefit from having a preparing to leave early plan," Mr Dent said.

"And being able to fill this plan out on line makes it even more accessible to these
people and the family members, friends or carers who may help them with their preparations."

The plan is intended for a wide-ranging group including the frail or elderly, people
with a disability, and anyone who might have difficulty thinking or acting clearly in
an emergency.

Fire Services Commissioner Craig Lapsley said although fire planning was essential
for all Victorians in high fire risk areas, it is crucial for people who may need extra
help to leave early.

"There are a number of things you need to consider for your own safety and completing
a ... plan will prompt you to plan when to leave, where you'll go, how you'll get there,
what personal items to take, such as medications, and who to tell," he said.

AAP jxt/jhp

KEYWORD: BUSHFIRE PLAN

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