Collaboration highlights bushfire preparedness at Big Bash League match

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) recently partnered with the Perth Scorchers, tapping into the cricket season’s momentum to motivate Western Australians to dedicate 15 minutes to developing a bushfire plan.

This initiative was showcased during a Big Bash League match against the Brisbane Heat at Optus Stadium, focusing on the promotion of DFES’ My Bushfire Plan app and website.

As a gesture of support for the campaign, the Scorchers made the decision to forego their signature on-field flames for the game.

The collaboration emerged after DFES spent months urging the public to take a quarter of an hour to prepare a bushfire plan, identified as a crucial defence mechanism against the unpredictability of bushfires.

Urgent call for preparedness amidst rising bushfire incidents

Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Darren Klemm AFSM remarked on the importance of being prepared: “Only 1.5 per cent of households have a recorded bushfire plan, compared to 93 per cent of the State that is bushfire prone,” he noted.

“Firefighters have responded to 2706 bushfires since October, 38 per cent more than at this time last year, and with conditions not showing any signs of easing, we want to see everyone prepared for a potential emergency in their area.”

Klemm highlighted the urgent need for action, pointing out: “More than 30 bushfires have reached emergency warning level since October, many within the Perth metropolitan area.

“Use the My Bushfire Plan app or website to make those lifesaving decisions now.”

Scorchers show support for bushfire safety

To further this message, DFES officers and firefighters were present at Optus Stadium, offering personalised advice on creating a bushfire plan.

Justin Michael, General Manager of the Perth Scorchers, spoke on the collaboration: “The Scorchers are the ultimate family summer entertainment, but we were prepared to sacrifice a popular aspect of our game-day package to promote the importance of bushfire safety.”

He emphasised the campaign’s aim to raise awareness and encourage proactive behaviour among fans: “That’s why we’re proud to partner with the Department of Fire and Emergency Services on the ‘Got 15 Minutes to Burn’ campaign.

“We’ve removed our on-field flames for our home match against the Brisbane Heat to underline this message.”

Michael urged fans and all Western Australians to take action, suggesting, “Whether it’s waiting for the first ball, during the innings break, or on the bus ride home, we urge every Scorchers fan and all Western Australians to take time to create their own bushfire plan.”

IFSJ Comment

The partnership between the Department of Fire and Emergency Services and the Perth Scorchers serves as a timely reminder of the importance of being prepared for bushfires.

This initiative cleverly utilises the widespread appeal of cricket to spread a vital message about safety and preparedness.

By integrating the promotion of the My Bushfire Plan app and website into a well-attended sporting event, DFES and the Scorchers have taken a strategic approach to engage the community in a crucial conversation about bushfire readiness.

The decision to remove on-field flames as a symbolic gesture underscores the campaign’s seriousness and the shared responsibility of the community in bushfire safety.

This effort demonstrates the potential impact of collaborative efforts between public services and sports organisations in raising awareness and encouraging action towards community safety and resilience.