Vic: Victorians well prepared for big bushfires, Bracks =2

AAP General News (Australia)
12-10-2006
Vic: Victorians well prepared for big bushfires, Bracks =2

Mr Bracks said he had decided not to visit any of the affected areas today on the advice
of emergency services, but he planned to do so tomorrow if it was appropriate.

"This is an intense period right now, we don't want any interruption to the logistical
exercise of having our resources used to their maximum," he said.

"I am hoping to go tomorrow, but that will be on the advice of the chief fire officer
of the CFA and the chief fire officer of the DSE (Department of Sustainability and Environment)
and I will take their advice tomorrow," Mr Bracks said.

He also issued a warning to firebugs, saying they could expect to face increased penalties.

"It's just one of the most reprehensible things imaginable at a time when the state
is tinderbox dry," Mr Bracks said.

"The full force of the law will be brought to bear to find these people, to bring them
to justice. We have increased penalties in place."

AAP mok/gfr/wjf/bwl

KEYWORD: BUSHFIRES VIC BRACKS 2 MELBOURNE (REOPENS)

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