Bushfire season is almost upon us and, truth be told, full preparations should have begun a couple of months ago – but it’s not too late. Here’s what you need to do prepare your home and yourself for a hot summer.
If you live in a fire-prone area, or even just any area adjacent to bushland, it’s crucial to take proactive steps to safeguard your home and property.
This year is shaping up to be a bumper bushfire year, after consecutive wet summers increased the fuel load right across Australia.
Rob Rogers, Rural Fire Service NSW commissioner, says residents need to be aware of the increased risk of grass fires this summer.
“Grass fires can be especially dangerous because they start quickly and spread rapidly, destroying homes and stock,” he says.
“Our firefighters are out on the ground doing everything they can to mitigate the risk of fire, but preparation is a shared responsibility, and we need property owners to do their part, too.
Bushfires can be devastating, but with proper preparation, you can significantly reduce the risk to both your family and your home. Here are some steps you can take to help prepare your property for bushfire season.
Create a defendable space
You’ll want to create a defendable area of at least 20 metres around your home, free of vegetation and other flammable materials, to reduce fire risk.
If you live in a more densely populated area where this isn’t possible, make sure any trees that overhang or adjoin your house have been trimmed back. Also make sure bushes and garden beds are kept away from windows as much as possible.
In the yard, start by clearing leaves, twigs and other debris. Then do the same for your gutters and roof. Remove any dead plants, dry grass and fallen branches. Keep your lawn well watered and mowed short.
A defendable area gives a space for embers to fall instead of landing on your house and can also reduce the intensity of an approaching fire.
Install fire-resistant upgrades
Consider installing ember guards on vents and screens on windows to prevent embers from entering your home. Make sure to seal any gaps in your roof, walls and underfloor areas as well.
Installing metal roller shutters on windows can also provide an added layer of protection.
If you have any wooden fences, decks or pergolas it might be worth replacing them with metal or other non-combustible materials if your area is particularly fire prone.
Fire-resistant home upgrades can significantly reduce the likelihood of your home catching fire from embers or direct flame contact. These upgrades can also increase the overall resilience of your home.
Prepare an emergency kit
Sometimes, no matter how much you prepare your home, the fire danger is too great, and the only option is to leave. Put together an emergency ‘go’ kit that includes essential items such as water, non-perishable food, medications, important documents and a battery-operated radio.
Also think about items such as a first aid kit, flashlights, extra batteries and personal hygiene products. Keep this kit in an easily accessible location.
In the event of a bushfire, you might need to evacuate quickly. An emergency kit ensures you have the necessary supplies to stay safe and informed. Having everything ready in advance can reduce stress in the moment and help you act swiftly.
Make a bushfire survival plan
Before you can evacuate, you need to have a plan for how to gather your loved ones and how you will get out in the event of a bushfire.
Sit down with your family and hash out a detailed plan for what you will do. This should include evacuation routes, a list of important contacts and a communication strategy. Identify safe places where you can take shelter, both within your home and in your nearby area.
Practise your plan regularly with your family and ensure everyone knows their role. Consider the needs of any elderly family members and those with disabilities, and make sure your plan accommodates them.
A well-rehearsed plan can save lives by ensuring everyone knows what to do and where to go during a bushfire emergency. Being prepared can help you stay calm and make informed decisions under pressure.
“There can never be a fire truck outside every home, so people need to have a plan in place if threatened by fire,” Mr Rogers says.
“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.”
Do you live in a bushfire prone area? What do you do to get your property prepared? Let us know in the comments section below.
Also read: The leading culprit behind house fires
