RESIDENTS in Apsley and Harrow will soon receive free Fire Ready Guides in the mail.


Developed by the Wimmera Emergency Management Team, these guides aim to help communities prepare for the upcoming bushfire season, particularly in areas identified as high risk.


Harrow, situated in a valley and Apsley, surrounded by bushland, face extreme bushfire risks due to their locations.


The Fire Ready Guides include essential information for planning and preparation, such as tips for creating a Bushfire Survival Plan, a detailed fire map of the local area, emergency contact information, and an overview of the Australian Fire Danger Rating System.


West Wimmera Shire chief executive, David Bezuidenhout, highlighted the importance of these guides, providing valuable resources for residents to stay safe during hot, dry, and windy conditions.


He also confirmed that guides for Edenhope, Goroke and Dergholm were being developed and would be distributed as soon as possible.


The recent Kadnook and Grampians fires are a timely reminder that emergencies can happen anywhere and at any time.


The Wimmera 72 website is another valuable tool that offers vital information and resources to help residents prepare for emergencies.


Copies of the Apsley and Harrow Fire Ready Guides are available from the West Wimmera Shire Council office in Edenhope, the Harrow Bush Nursing Centre, and the Post Office.


These guides, along with additional emergency information, can also be accessed on the Wimmera 72 website and the West Wimmera Shire Council website.


If you have any questions about the Apsley and Harrow Fire Ready Guides or the Wimmera 72 website, email the Wimmera Emergency Management Team at wemt@hrcc.vic.gov.au.