New signs spell help for all

THE Springvale fire brigade has introduced multi-language emergency signage on its vehicles to cater for the area’s diverse population.
The brigade launched the new signs on 18 April, in time for Cambodian New Year celebrations in Springvale.
Operations officer Peter Lucas said the signs, in the three most common languages in the City of Greater Dandenong, would better service the community.
“In the City of Greater Dandenong, census data showed that the top three languages other than English were Cantonese, Vietnamese and Khmer,” Mr Lucas said.
“Triple zero remains consistent with what residents would see on their mobile handset, public telephone or home phone however the word ‘emergency’ provided in these three languages will assist us in getting the 000 messages across to our community.
“We’ll gauge the community’s reaction to the multiple languages and hopefully we can extend it to the fire trucks.”
Mr Lucas urged residents that require emergency service to dial 000.
“Please ensure that when speaking with the 000 operator that you listen closely to their instruction, remain calm and answer the questions they ask,” he said.
“Should you require a language other than English, please let the operator know immediately and they will provide you with the information you require.”
CFA provides brochures in languages other than English. To access brochures, please call the Victorian Bushfire Information line on 1800 240 667 or visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au.