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RACV urges holidaymakers to ensure they are appropriately covered against bushfires

By Kady Hadjab

Dec 17, 2023

Stay safe: Bushfires are a common problem encountered by holidaymakers throughout summer. Photo by Simon Bingham

The RACV is encouraging Victorian holidaymakers to prepare for potential fire risks on their travel routes and destinations.

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RACV head of home and business insurance Kirsty Hayes encouraged people to ensure they had appropriate insurance coverage for their homes, vehicles, caravans and trailers.

“It is essential to prepare for travelling safely to your holiday destination and make sure you are familiar with the risks for that location,” she said.

“Check the fire danger rating for not only your destination but for the route you are travelling on — grassfires can move at speeds of up to 25km/h and jump highways.”

The RACV encourages travellers to prepare an evacuation plan, download the VicEmergency app for real-time information and listen to local radio for warnings.

The organisation also recommends packing an emergency kit containing essential items such as a first-aid kit, water, fire extinguisher, fire blanket and woollen blanket.

Lastly, bushfire risk areas should be avoided on days of extreme fire danger.

So before you hit the road, check your insurance policy to ensure it is up to date and provides sufficient coverage.

For additional travel safety tips, the CFA’s website is also a valuable source of information.