Be bushfire ready!
At this time of year, there is a major decision each of us must make in the event of a bushfire. The decision to either leave early to avoid the danger; or the decision to stay, defend our home and survive. In either case, a Bushfire Plan is important, as is letting your family and neighbours know your decisions and movements.
The safest option is to leave early, hours before the fire reaches your home to avoid being caught in smoke, the fire, or on a congested road. Develop a list of items your family will need, and prepare an Emergency Kit. (Checklist available on Tas Fire Service website at www.fire.tas.gov.au
On high fire risk days or actual fire days: block drain-pipes and fill gutters with water; remove flammable items from the exterior of the house e.g. blinds, outdoor furniture, door mats; and pack your prepared belongings into your car and leave in accordance with your plan.
Stay and Defend should only be considered if your home is well prepared, specifically designed and constructed for bush fire and you are capable of actively defending it. Staying to defend a well-prepared property during a bushfire always carries the risk of injury or death. Monitor your local ABC radio station. Pack your Emergency Kit into your car.
Safer Internet Day was 7th February.
Remaining safe whilst on the Web is a daily concern, especially when it comes to our children. Only 46% of Australian parents feel confident about dealing with the online risks their children face and 95% want more information about online safety.
Safer Internet Day sees people all over the world focus the light on online safety and encourages better internet communities by raising awareness of simple but significant online habits. Here are some tips you can follow to help your children stay safe online:
- Be aware of your children’s online information and keep it safe. Use a range of passwords for accounts and remind them not to post sensitive information online.
- Watch out for scam emails. Children need to learn how to avoid links from unknown sources and not provide any personal information or bank account details.
- Maintain control over your technology devices and systems. Explore privacy and parental controls on your devices, wifi networks, accounts, computers, and smart TVs.
- Don’t leave it to someone else. Be vigilant, speak up and help others. Report any abusive behaviour you discover and assist others to stay safe online. Learn more at the Australian eSafety Commissioner website www.esafety.gov.au
March is Neighbourhood Watch month
And this year’s theme is “The Month of Home Security”. Check out our website for tips on our website.
International Women’s Day is 8th March.
Each year, we use this day to celebrate the achievements of women the world over and raise awareness about women’s equality and their role in society. The theme this year is ‘Cracking the Code: Innovation for a gender equal future’. This is based on the United Nations’ priority theme of Innovation and technological change, and education in the digital age for achieving gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls.
We recognise how far we’ve come towards gender equality and how far we have to go. We celebrate all women, in all their diversities. We celebrate those who came before us, those who stand beside us now, and those who will come after. Individually, we’re all responsible for our own thoughts and actions – all day, every day. We can all call out gender bias and inequality. We can all choose to seek out and celebrate women’s achievements. Collectively, we can all help create an inclusive world.
Here in New Norfolk, we celebrate with a special breakfast on March 7th, at the Lions Club Rooms on Humphrey Street, from 9 to 11am. Cost is $15 per person. Further details are available via the Lions’ facebook page.
On International Women’s Day we remember that as long as one woman faces discrimination, harassment, inequality or oppression, we all do.
IN AN Emergency… or when a crime is taking place, call 000. If a crime has already happened, call 131 444. For anonymous reporting call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
NNNW – Your connection to a safer community
