3 January
Goulburn Valley Water is asking customers to consider an alternate water supply as part of their bushfire readiness plan as the region enters the fire danger season, particularly if they live in a rural or bushfire-prone area.
Parts of the service area have been identified as being high fire danger areas by the Country Fire Authority (CFA) and while Goulburn Valley Water staff do their best in emergencies there is no guarantee that town water supplies won’t be affected during a major fire.
Goulburn Valley Water Managing Director Dr Steve Capewell said there were a variety of options for customers when it came to having an alternate water supply available.
“During a major fire, the demand on the town water supply is likely to exceed the capacity of the supply system. This means water pressure is likely to be significantly reduced, or in some cases, without water entirely.
“This may impact on your ability to fight fires as well. Alternate water supplies could include water tanks, dams, swimming pools, rubbish or wheelie bins, even bathtubs or laundry tubs.
“To be even better prepared people could consider having an independent pump in case they lose power,” he said.
When it comes to drinking water Goulburn Valley Water’s website suggests that people fill up several large containers and place them in the fridge or a cool place, or fill your bathtub in case of loss of supply.
“When the fire risk is severe, extreme or catastrophic we encourage people to have at least 10 litres per person (one bucket) available, at a minimum,” Dr Capewell said.
Individual fire plans should identify reliable alternative water sources such as a large dam, irrigation channel, or creek. Only residents who are fully prepared should consider staying to defend their property.
The safest option is to leave early and be well away from the threat. In an emergency, Goulburn Valley Water works with the CFA, the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action and other agencies to provide firefighters quick access to hydrants and access to water supply.
System repairs are also carried out as soon as it’s safe to do so. More information can be found from the CFA on preparing for a bushfire or at Your water supply in a fire | Goulburn Valley Water (www.gvwater.vic.gov.au/service-interruptions/emergencies-and-natural-disasters/your-watersupply-in-a-fire).