NSW firefighter death a tragic reminder of danger

A fire on Wodonga’s Federation Hill could be a serious risk for nearby residents if they were not prepared.

Wodonga senior station officer Brett Myers has called on the community to join with firefighters to prevent potential embers sparking a house fire this summer.

“If a fire was to start on Federation Hill, it would definitely impact houses,” he said.

“It’s been identified as one of the key risks for the Wodonga Fire Brigade.”

The brigade will host an information evening on December 3 at 7.30pm at Wattle Park  to use the backdrop of the hills to explain dangers.

Mr Myers said residents who choose to live near fire risk should be proactive.

“I think communities need to take responsibility for their own preparedness,” he said.

“We can’t guarantee a fire truck for every house.”

The main danger was sparks and embers from a potential fire on the hill could land in gutters, plant life or firewood.

Mr Myers said it was never too late for simple measures such as cleaning out gutters or packing away wood.

Firefighters had also been preparing and visited the edge of the Murray River to practice taking extra water for a serious fire.

For more information on how to prepare for fire season, visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au/plan-prepare.