If you follow these simple guidelines you can reduce the threat of embers and bushfire affecting your home:
Clean leaves from gutters, roofs and downpipes regularly and fit quality metal leaf guards.
Screen vents on roof voids with fine metal wire mesh.
When installing LPG cylinders around your home, make sure that pressure relief valves face outwards so that flame is not directed towards the house.
Keep woodpiles well away from the house and covered.
Cut back overhanging trees, keep grass short and rake up flammable leaves, twigs and cuttings.
Do not deposit tree loppings, grass clippings etc behind your property into council reserves or bushland.
Ensure your garden hoses are long enough to reach the perimeter boundary.
Plant trees and shrubs that are less likely to ignite due to their lower oil content.
If you have a swimming pool, have a Static Water Supply sign placed on your front fence. Contact your
local fire service for information.
Consider purchasing a portable pump to use from your swimming pool or water tank.
If there is a Community Fire Unit or Firewise group nearby, become a member.
Make sure that any fire hydrants near your home are easily located and not obstructed.
In the event of bushfire threatening your home:
Dont enter the bush if smoke or fire is in the area. Stay calm and report all fires on 000!
Check if elderly neighbours need assistance.
If possible, block your gutters and fill with water.
If you choose to self-evacuate, do so early.
If ordered to evacuate by the police you must obey, so have pets and valuables packed and ready to go.
Wear long sleeves and long pants, natural fibres and sturdy footwear.
Close all windows and doors, block spaces beneath doors with towels or blankets.
If the fire is approaching your house, bring your garden hose and fittings inside so they wont melt in the fire, as you may need them later.
To help put out spot fires once the fire has passed, keep hoses, ladders, shovels and metal buckets at hand.
Keep a torch and portable radio in the home in case the electricity supply fails.
You can find more information on bushfire protection at
BushFire Safety
