BRIGADE HOPES FOR QUIET SUMMER

Members of the Diamond Beach Rural Fire Brigade are hoping for a quiet summer but preparing for the worst just in case there are serious fires in our area. Although we have had plenty of rain recently, strong winds can quickly dry the undergrowth which increases the ground fuel and makes it easier for a fire to spread quickly.
Acting Captain, Russell Gray, said today that all Brigade members continue to brush up their skills in the lead up to the all important summer fire season.
“We’re training every Thursday and making sure that all our equipment is fully operational. We’ve also introduced monthly evening training during daylight saving to ensure all members have the opportunity to participate in the numerous training programmes being organised.”
Brigade numbers have been bolstered recently with the addition of Corey Love and Gwenda Duncan who have gained qualification as a Bush Fire Fighter and Bush Fire Fighter (support) respectively.
Mr Gray said the Brigade is always seeking new members in a variety of capacities and members of the public are always welcome to visit the Brigade any Thursday morning between 9.30 and 11.30am.

FAIRY LIGHT CHECKS

Fairy and other decorative lights are a colourful part of our Australian Christmas as they twinkle on trees, roofs, balconies, fences and home fronts. Unfortunately they can sometimes pose serious safety and fire hazards.
Mr Gray would like everyone to take particular care, and has some simple safety tips –
Plug in only one item per socket
Check your lights before you set them up, and don’t use them if the wiring, cords or plugs are damaged
Don’t let hot lights touch decorations
Switch lights off before going to bed
Make sure you have working smoke alarms
Make sure you have all practised your home escape plan.

Remember in any fire emergency to phone 000 – triple zero