Donation Made to Australian Fire Victims as Heat Hits Home

Hastings District councillors voted unanimously yesterday to make a $10,000 donation towards rebuilding the lives of Australians whose homes have been devastated by bush fires.

Deputy Mayor, Cynthia Bowers says as temperatures soar here and the fire risk heightens Hawke’s Bay residents can empathise with Victorians who face the raging fires.

“The scale of this event strikes at the hearts of Hawke’s Bay residents who realise that this could happen here – hopefully not. Some families have been left with nothing but the clothes they stand in and this money will be sent to a relief fund set up to help families get back on their feet.”

Hastings District Council Principal Fire Officer, Mike Maguire says last night’s drizzle did nothing to dampen fire risk here and with no significant rain on the horizon he’s asking for vigilance from the public.

“The chance of a large fire taking hold in Hawke’s Bay is dangerously high at the moment. Although the fires we have here are different to those experienced in the Australian bush they pose just as much risk to life and property if they get out of control,” Mr Maguire says.

Remember;

· Do not light any fires - even in urban areas or at the beach.

· When using equipment in rural areas be extremely cautious of stone strike, hot exhausts etc. Council has suspended roadside mowing in rural areas for this very reason.

· Have a fire plan. What will you do if there is a fire on your property? Where is your water supply?

· If you see flames or smoke anywhere do not hesitate to call 111. The sooner the fire service can attend a fire the less risk there is to life and property.

If you wish to make your own donation to families in Victoria call either the Red Cross on ph. 0900 33 200 to make an automatic $20 donation, or the Salvation Army on ph. 0800 53 00 00 to make a donation.