Mallee grain farmer Ian Hastings is passionate about ensuring that everyone who is working in the paddock during harvest knows how to operate the firefighting equipment.
However, Ian admits that if you don’t plan for an emergency, practice using your firefighting unit and train your team how to use it, you’re risking lives and potentially wasting a lot of money.
High visibility cotton work clothing is available for purchase in Australia. Contact Agriculture Victoria in 136 186, or your consultant before making any changes on farm.
Fire management planning on farms involves protecting your assets and your people. Visit the CFA for more information about preparing your farm for fire.
Through the Victorian Government funded Making our Farms Safer project, the Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) is providing farm safety advice and support for all Victorian farmers. Visit MOFS for more information https://www.vff.org.au/project/making-our-farms-safer/
WorksafeVictoria provides the OHS Essentials program, a free workplace safety consultation service, delivered by independent occupational health and safety experts worksafe.vic.gov.au/ohs-essentials-program
Content Warning
This podcast features one man's experience of fire on his farm and may be confronting and disturbing to someone who has experienced a similar situation. For some people, these responses can be overwhelming. If you need to talk to someone, support is available. Find & Connect Support Services: Freecall 1800 16 11 09 (Monday–Friday 9am–5pm). Lifeline: Call 13 11 14 anytime for confidential telephone crisis support.
