Today marks the official start of the bushfire season in Australia, and authorities say increased fuel loads mean we’re in for a challenging summer. But some firefighters have already been fighting the flames for months.
The NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) reported its firefighters have responded to more than 1,600 bush and grass fires across the state since 1 July.
This summer is predicted to be warmer than the past few years and people should be prepared wherever they are.
RFS commissioner Rob Rogers says people living in rural areas in particular need to have a plan in place should their homes be confronted by fire.
“Consecutive years of wet weather have fuelled growth of vegetation like grass lands,” he says.
“Grass fires can be especially dangerous because they start quickly and spread rapidly, destroying homes and stock.
“There can never be a fire truck outside every home, so people need to have a plan in place if threatened by fire. Make sure your whole family knows whether you will stay and defend your home or will leave early – and if so, where you will go.”
He also encouraged people to take preventative measures at home to reduce the risk of fire.
This includes trimming overhanging trees and shrubs; mowing grass and removing cuttings and making a cleared area around your home; removing material that can burn around your home, such as door mats, wood piles, mulch and flammable liquids; and clearing and removing all debris and leaves from gutters.
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