AS THE mercury starts to rise and bushfire season edges closer, residents are urged to ensure they have downloaded the new VicEmergency app.
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The VicEmergency app is the replacement for the FireReady app, which will be switched off and no longer available from midday tomorrow.
The new app will provide Victorians with access to warnings and incidents for fires, floods, storms earthquakes, tsunamis and water safety.
Emergency Management Commissioner Craig Lapsley said residents should download the app now so they could familiarise themselves with it.
“The VicEmergency website, app and hotline will provide a joined-up approach for Victorians to access timely information for a number of emergencies across multiple channels,” he said.
“Through having access to better information, we can make better decisions that result in better outcomes and a safer community.”
The VicEmergency app will allow residents to create a profile and set up so-called “watch zones” giving them the most up-to-date and relevant information.
CFA acting deputy chief officer Garry Cook said all emergency information and warnings could now be found in the one centralised location.
“This is an important step in bringing together all emergency information across the sector for the benefit of the community,” he said. “The new app will mirror the VicEmergency website and provide timely, tailored information on all emergencies, not just fires and floods.”
Mr Lapsley said a new VicEmergency hotline would be used this summer to make it easier for the community to access information through a single number.
The new number – 1800 226 226 – brings together the Victoria Bushfire Information Line, Victorian Emergency Relief Information Line and VICSES Flood and Storm information Line.
The VicEmergency app can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play. Visit www.emv.vic.gov.au/news/new-vicemergency-app-launched for more information.
