Bushfire precautions – it’s later than you think

It seems that the bushfire season is getting longer with every passing year, to the point when there is no longer any time when residents in fire-prone areas can relax their guard.

 Last year fires were being reported in several parts of Australia during September, so precautions should certainly be underway by now.

 These include clearing debris that may have collected over the winter from roofs, gutters and any outside areas close to the house such as decks and courtyards. Timber decks and balconies are a major fire risk and are a path into the main building for a fire. If you are planning to install them consider materials that will not burn such as metal or concrete. In any case you should consult your local authority as there are specific regulations governing construction methods and materials used in bushfire-prone areas.

Check your access to water supplies which may include rainwater tanks, dams, swimming pools, as well as the mains. A sprinkler system connected to these supplies should be ready in case fire approaches.

 Do not store firewood against the walls or underneath the home and make sure all doors have close-fitting screens. Keep grass close to all buildings cut short and remove fallen branches that could provide fire fuel.

 Plant trees and shrubs away from the home, as the resulting open space will create a fire break. Put screens over any chimneys to catch falling embers which will otherwise have a way straight into the interior.

 A report last year compiled by CSIRO, the Bushfire Cooperative Research Centre and the Bureau of Meteorology predicted more frequent and hotter dry spells across Australia over the next 40 years, with the number of days of extreme fire danger increasing by 65 per cent by 2020.

 With no end in sight to the drought and average temperatures expected to rise by as much as three degrees by 2050, it is everyone’s responsibility to take all possible precautions. You could be saving your life and those of your family, friends and neighbours.

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