Get set for summer safety

AS THE weather heats up, City of Casey residents are being reminded to prepare for a safe summer.
The City of Casey is urging residents to ensure pool and spa fences meet regulations and bushfire plans are in place.
City of Casey mayor Geoff Ablett said residents needed to take action to reduce the risk of health impacts as temperatures begin to rise.
“Heat can cause illness or increase the severity of existing health conditions, both of which can become fatal if ignored,” he said.
“On warmer days, residents should try to keep cool, drink plenty of water ensure food is stored and refrigerated properly, and stay out of the sun.”
Cr Ablett also said it was important that residents checked pool fences before jumping in to cool down.”
Building regulations apply to any swimming pool or spa containing a water depth of more than 30 centimetres and constructed on a property on which a house is situated,” he said.
“Pool safety should be taken seriously and heavy penalties of more than $5000 apply to people who don’t comply with regulations.”
Residents living in rural and high-risk areas should have bushfire survival plans ready and rehearsed in the event of a bushfire.
“Victoria is prone to unpredictable and devastating bushfires and forecasts indicate that parts of Victoria are at above-average risk of bushfires this summer,” Cr Ablett added.
For more information on pool and spa regulations, visit www.casey.vic.gov.au/building-planning/building-advice/swimming-pools-and-spas.
Fire Danger Ratings are available at www.cfa.vic.gov.au or by calling the Victorian Bushfire Information Line on 1800 240 667.
The council has prepared fire prevention information for residents, which can be found at www.casey.vic.gov.au/health-safety/emergency-management/fires/fire-prevention.