Melton and Moorabool landholders are being warned the region’s main water supplies could be turned off in the event of a major fire this summer.
Bacchus Marsh CFA captain Nathan Ractliffe said it was important, this fire season, for residents to think about what they would do if mains water was cut off. They should consider alternatives, such as a water tank that doesn’t run on electricity or a nearby swimming pool, Mr Ractliffe said.
“We want residents to be aware and be self-reliant,’’ he said. “If they aren’t prepared, they should leave early if there’s a fire.”
Western Water managing director Neil Brennan said residents in high-risk areas should consider possible alternatives.
“If electricity is cut or our infrastructure is affected by fire, our pumps may fail, cutting the mains water supply,” he said. “If we have extremely high demand for water from customers and the CFA during a fire, water pressure may also drop.”
Mr Brennan advised residents to consult their local CFA unit about options for independent water supplies.
“We are also doing all we can to prepare for summer, with back-up generators ready and water storage tanks at high capacity to cope if we have a fire.”
Mr Brennan said Western Water was encouraging residents to identify fire hydrants that may be difficult to access because of damage or vegetation and debris, so they can be upgraded and the area around them cleared.
“You can take a picture of a damaged or tired-looking hydrant and
send it to us via Twitter or Facebook and we will follow up to ensure it is repainted or repaired.”
