Bushfire 'Community Leave Early Information Form'

A new ‘Community Leave Early Information Form’ is being trialed for bushfire affected remote communities in East Gippsland. Residents who plan to leave home for an extended period or leave early in an emergency can notify emergency services.

East Gippsland Shire Council’s Manager Community Engagement Sascha Johns said community members are encouraged to fill out the form so emergency services can track who may have decided to stay or leave early during an emergency.

“The forms are available on our website and at Neighbourhood Houses or bush nurse services in fire affected and remote areas,” Ms Johns said.

“Communities should know their assembly area and Local Incident Management Plan (LIMP), which is a simple document developed by communities to ensure residents and visitors know where to go, what to take and what to expect if a major incident affects the area.”

Council is reminding residents who are frail, physically or cognitively impaired and unable to comprehend warnings and directions and/or respond in an emergency to be included in Council’s Vulnerable Persons Register (VPR).

The VPR is a local list of people who may need consideration in an emergency. The register is maintained by agencies that provide personal care, support and case management services to people living in the community in partnership with Council. 

“It is important to help each other out during this bushfire season and make sure vulnerable members of our community are assisted during an emergency,” Ms Johns said.

“Neighbours, families, friends and agencies including council can support and assist those people in our community who may need extra support.”

If you are aware of someone who is vulnerable and may need assistance in an emergency, contact Council's Emergency Management Team.

“Remember to always notify your family and friends of your plans and intensions to stay or go during a bushfire emergency,” Ms Johns said.

Find your LIMP and Community Leave Early Information Form on our website and use multiple sources to stay informed. Hard copies of the form are also available from Council’s Customer Service Centres