The Bushfire Danger Period has officially started. Yep, it’s that time of year again when we need to be extra vigilant and prepared.
We are sadly, all too familiar with the devastating impact bush fires can have on communities. So, let’s get into it, shall we? It’s important all members of our community are familiar and super-vigilant when it comes to bush fire season.
Time To Prep And Plan
First things first, let’s get our homes and properties ready. A well-prepared home is more likely to survive a bushfire, and it’s easier to defend. Plus, it’s a good neighbourly thing to do, as it reduces the risk for everyone around you. So, how do we get our homes bushfire-ready?
Basic maintenance tips
- Clean those gutters: Leaves and twigs are a no-no. Keep ’em clean.
- Gutter guards: Install metal ones to keep debris out.
- Roof check: Repair any damaged or missing tiles.
- Mesh screens: Install fine metal mesh on windows and doors.
- Seal gaps: Fit seals around doors and windows to eliminate any gaps.
- Under the house: Enclose areas to prevent embers from getting in.
- Wall gaps: Repair or cover any gaps in external walls.
- Fire sprinklers: Consider attaching a system to your gutters.
- Lawn and garden: Keep your lawn short and your garden well-maintained.
- Overhanging trees: Cut back any trees or shrubs that overhang buildings.
- Debris: Clean up fallen leaves, twigs, and other flammable items.
- Hoses: Make sure they’re long enough to reach around your entire house.
- Water Supply: If you have a pool, tank, or dam, put up a Static Water Supply (SWS) sign so firefighters know where to get water.
- Insurance: Double-check your home and contents insurance to make sure it’s up-to-date.
It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Know The Fire Danger Rating System
If you haven’t already, get familiar with the new RFS Fire Danger Rating System (FDR). This low-to-catastrophic scale makes it super easy to gauge the fire risk on any given day. It’s like a weather forecast but for fires, and it’s a must-know for everyone in the community.
Grassfires Are A Real Risk
Grassfires can escalate quickly and are a high-risk factor. So, if you live in a rural area, you MUST notify your local RFS before doing any backyard burning. If you’re in an urban area, give Fire and Rescue NSW a shout.
Stay Updated
Keep an eye on your local RFS website for the latest updates. The local Council’s website also have helpful information to help you stay prepared and safe.
Total Fire Ban Days
And hey, on Total Fire Ban days, no fires are allowed out in the open. Make it a habit to check the daily FDR for your location. A large chunk of our region is identified as bushfire-prone land, so let’s all do our bit to keep our families and community safe.
So, as we enjoy the warm weather, let’s also make sure we’re doing everything we can to stay fire-safe. We’re all in this together.
For more information, head over to you local council’s website and the NSW RFS website.
Stay safe, Illawarra.