Get down and go go

GET down low and go go go!
That will be the cry from Berwick CFA volunteers next week as they show families what to do if a house fire occurs.
The free advice, which will take place at McDonald’s Berwick and Berwick South, is part of a Community Fire Escape Plan day organised by the CFA and MFB to help save lives this winter.
The CFA community development manager, Gwynne Brennan, said thousands of house fires occurred in Victoria every year, “particularly in winter when we use more appliances and open fires to keep warm”.
“But very few families have a fire escape plan because no one ever thinks it will happen to them. Yet having a simple plan ready in case of fire can help save precious lives.
“When there’s a house fire, it’s very important to act quickly and decisively. But most people, and particularly children, tend to panic when confronted by smoke and flames and it can be very hard to think clearly,” she said.
Ms Brennan said she was thrilled that McDonald’s was offering its support in getting the important message out into the community.
McDonald’s franchisee Ian Seal said he was keen for families to drop in to the restaurant and get some expert advice from the CFA.
“We also have a special fire safety tray mat in restaurants at the moment, with tips on how to prevent fires starting and what to do in the event of unexpected house fires, which we have produced with the CFA and MFB,” he said.
“It contains a lot of simple, practical advice.”
Activities will take place on Saturday 4 August at McDonald’s Berwick between 11am to 12.30pm and McDonald’s Berwick South 2 to 3.30pm.