Thank you to Firefighters in Forrestdale Fire

The City of Armadale would like to sincerely thank the 200-strong contingent of firefighters who worked tirelessly both in the air and on the ground to save homes, businesses and lives in the recent Forrestdale fires.

City of Armadale Mayor Henry Zelones OAM, JP said that he was grateful for the immense efforts of DFES personnel and emergency services volunteers to get the fire under control. After starting on Thursday 7 February, their efforts over 48 hours protected thousands of homes and businesses in the area.

“Any fire is scary and dangerous and I am grateful for how hard the firefighters worked to control the fire during the day and throughout the night. As always our community stepped up to support each other. There was an overwhelming response in the community from volunteers who offered their materials, home, services, thoughts and efforts during the fire and I want to extend a thank you to them too.

“Our warm climate and abundant native bushland means we have a high risk of bush fire each year and it is important that we all remain vigilant during these times and never become complacent.”

“The fire was also a reminder for the residents of our new suburbs that while they live in a very suburban feeling area, they are actually surrounded by a lot of protected bushland. And with that beautiful bushland comes the risks of bushfire, so it’s important they understand the warnings and prepare their evacuation plan.”

A DFES and Red Cross information session on the Forrestdale Fire and bushfire preparedness will be held at 6.30pm on Wednesday 20 February at the Piara Waters Pavilion, Piara Waters.

“Attendees will learn how to mentally prepare for emergencies, pack their emergency kit, Fire Danger Ratings, Bushfire Warnings System, planning for an emergency, what to do in an emergency, and where to get up-to-date information during an emergency. They will also have the opportunity to hear from the Incident Controller of the Forrestdale Fire and ask questions about the fire,” added Mayor Zelones.

For further information and to RSVP, visit www.trybooking.com/BAXGH or email communitypreparedness@dfes.wa.gov.au.

At the last Council meeting Councillor Michelle Silver who lives and works in the area thanked the firefighters, officials and volunteers who fought the fires and made donations.

“David (my partner) and I received over $1200 worth of goods and cash donated for the fire crews from Riva and Harrisdale residents and the Pakistanis in Australia organisation, and over $500 worth of goods donated by Hitachi alone. The generosity of these people and organisations is greatly appreciated and recognised,” she said.