Bendigo fire brigade hosts safety open day as season looms
Maiden Gully CFA held an open day on Sunday to help locals prepare for the looming summer fire season.
The brigade opened its doors to demonstrate how to use fire blankets and extinguishers, with hands-on activities for kids. Andrew Howlett, a firefighter and treasurer, said the event became annual about five years ago and now pairs with the statewide 'Get Fire Ready' campaign.
Emergency services brought in rescue brigades, vintage fire trucks, and even a flood rescue boat. Sunday's open day was held in wet weather with 13.2mm falling, backing up on the 11.4mm which fell the day before.
Kids took part in hands-on activities while adults talked through evacuation plans and summer safety. Howlett said the goal was to get people thinking about their plan, from clearing gutters to deciding whether to stay or leave if danger comes.
- October 26, 2026
- Open day date
- About 5 years
- Years as annual event
- 13.2mm
- Rain on event day
- 11.4mm
- Rain previous day
Why it mattersFire season arrives in a matter of weeks. Families who know their plan and basic safety steps are far more likely to protect their homes and survive.
AustraliaVictorians can visit their local CFA station to learn evacuation plans, fire safety basics, and what to do if a blaze approaches their area.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 1 h ago
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