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More than two hundred CFA brigades hosted community-focused fire-readiness events over the weekend as the Get Fire Ready initiative officially kicked off.
Thousands of Victorians turned out to learn more about fire safety, engaging in conversations with their local firefighters at events that stretched from Kadnook in the west to Toongabbie in the east.
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan declared the weekend an overwhelming success and a great start to a month of activity encouraging Victorians to prepare for the fire season.
Jason visited events across the state, including Mooroolbark, Kinglake, Beveridge, Trentham, Wendouree and Stonehaven.
"The atmosphere was really positive, people were interested in how they could take practical action ahead of the Fire Danger Period," Jason said.
"The new local-area maps were particularly popular with both brigades and community members. They gave residents a chance to pinpoint their properties and talk about local fire risks."
Brigades also reported strong interest from members of the public in joining CFA, with volunteer recruitment proving an added bonus to the weekend.
Spring Hill Fire Brigade Captain Scott Selle said the brigade had never run an event of this kind before and was pleased to give his small community, situated near the Wombat State Forest, the chance to ask questions about the season ahead.
The day also brought a welcome surprise, with local resident Jamie Clark signing up as a new recruit after stopping by to see the truck and tour the station.
Malmsbury Fire Brigade Captain Linda Krive said her brigade had also attracted a potential new volunteer.
"While we took part in Get Fire Ready to inform locals about their fire risk, gaining a new volunteer is of course an added positive," Linda said.
Linda encouraged other brigades to get involved in the weeks ahead.
"The more brigades that take part, the more opportunities we have to help communities understand their risk and take simple steps to get ready."
With another three weekends of events still to come, CFA is urging Victorians to look out for their nearest Get Fire Ready event by visiting cfa.vic.gov.au/getfireready.
