Bush Fire Safety
Last summer’s bush fires destroyed 2,476 homes and claimed 26 lives, we don't want that to ever happen again!
It's important to have a plan when it comes to protecting your property and what you will do in the event of a bush fire near your home. It's your responsibility to prepare yourself, your home and your family.
There are four simple steps to get ready for a bush fire:
- Discuss - what to do if a bush fire threatens your home
- Prepare - your home and get it ready for the bush fire season.
- Know - the bush fire alert levels
- Keep - all the bush fire information numbers, websites, and the smart phone app.
Preparing Your Home
Here are some things you can do around your house to prepare for a bush fire.
- Trim - trim overhanging trees and shrubs. This can stop the fire spreading to your home
- Mow - mow grass and remove the cuttings. Have a cleared area around your home.
- Remove - remove material that can burn around your home (e.g. Door mats, wood piles, mulch, leaves, paint, outdoor furniture).
- Clear - clear and remove all the debris and leaves from the gutters surrounding your home. Burning embers can set your home on fire.
- Prepare - prepare a sturdy hose or hoses that will reach all around your home. Make sure you’ve got a reliable source of water.
Keep Key Information Handy
- Phone - In an emergency call Triple Zero (000). For information on bush fire, call the Bush Fire Information Line 1800 NSW RFS (1800 679 737)
- Web - NSW Rural Fire Service Website: rfs.nsw.gov.au Fire Danger Ratings: rfs.nsw.gov.au/fdr
- App - ‘Fires Near Me’ Free smartphone app.
- News sources - Local radio, local ABC/emergency broadcaster frequency, TV, newspapers
- Social media - facebook.com/nswrfs, twitter.com/nswrfs
For more information the Rural Fire Services have provided some valuable information in a downloadable pdf. Also visit My Fire Plan to start your plan now.