2.55PM THU.: A ‘Watch and Act’ message has been issued for Ruffy and Crieghtons Creek”

“There is a grassfire at Caveat that is not yet under control.

“This grassfire is travelling in a northerly direction towards Ruffy.

“This grassfire could impact Ruffy Township and areas north of Ruffy including Creamery Lane, Maggies Lane, McLeans Lane Weibye Track any time between 3:30pm and 5:00pm.

“Don’t wait, leaving now is the safest option – conditions may change and get worse very quickly. Emergency Services may not be able to help you if you decide to stay.

“Residents leaving, should head in a direction towards Euroa.

What you should do:

The best protection from radiant heat and smoke is distance.

Travel to:
The home of family or friends that are away from the warning area.
When you leave remember to take your pets, medications, mobile phone and charger.
If you encounter smoke or flames whilst travelling, turn around and drive to safety. If you’re unable to turn around and drive to safety, a car offers more protection from the fire’s heat than being caught on foot in the open.
If you’re in a car and become caught in a grassfire, don’t get out and run.
If you have time, check your neighbours to see if they are monitoring conditions.
If you are away from home, do not return.

If you choose to stay, seek shelter indoors:
Bring your pets indoors.
Close all exterior doors, windows and vents.
Turn off cooling systems.
Shelter in a room that has a door and a window to the outside so you can keep an eye on what is happening with the fire.
Impacts in your area:
Some local roads maybe closed.
This message was issued by Country Fire Authority.

The next update is expected by 31/01/2019 5pm or as the situation changes.

If you can smell smoke, please note:
Smoke can affect people’s health.
People with heart or lung conditions (including asthma), children, pregnant women and older people are more sensitive to the effects of breathing in smoke.
People with existing heart or lung conditions (including asthma) should follow the treatment plan advised by the doctor.

Health information:
If you need medical advice for burns or exposure to smoke, seek medical advice or call Nurse on Call on 1300 606 024.
Anyone experiencing wheezing, chest tightness and difficulty breathing should call Triple Zero (000).
If you cannot smell smoke you are not likely to be exposed to smoke and it will therefore not affect you.

Use multiple sources to stay informed:
www.emergency.vic.gov.au.
VicEmergency Hotline – freecall 1800 226 226.
VicEmergency app.
Facebook or Twitter (#vicfires).
Tune in to ABC Local Radio, commercial and designated community radio stations, or Sky News TV.

Accessibility:
The following services can help you, or someone you know, access information during an emergency.
To access this information in other languages call the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450 (freecall) and ask them to call VicEmergency Hotline.
If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech/communication impairment contact National Relay Service on 1800 555 677 and ask them to call the VicEmergency Hotline.