Bush fires are a devastating and terrifying phenomenon that many Australians are all too familiar with. The natural beauty of the Hawkesbury region means that we live in an area of high bushfire risk, and it is essential that local residents take the necessary steps to prepare their homes and their families for the upcoming bushfire season. By taking action now, you can help safeguard your property, protect your loved ones, and reduce the risk of damage caused by a potential bushfire. In this blog post, we’ll be discussing some of the key steps you can take to prepare your home for the bushfire season.
Clearing your property – One of the most crucial steps you can take is to clear any debris or clutter from your property. This includes dead leaves, branches, grass, and anything else that could potentially fuel a bushfire. It’s also important to keep your lawn mowed short during the bushfire season. An unkempt property not only fuels a bush fire quickly but it also makes the property more challenging for firefighters to access.
To ensure safety, it is crucial to identify and remove any items that pose a high risk of flammability. This includes gas bottles, woodpiles, and old furniture, which can easily ignite and accelerate the spread of a fire. Store these items away from the house, preferably in a cool and shaded area, to minimize the potential hazard they may pose. Taking these precautionary measures will greatly reduce the chances of a fire outbreak and protect your property from potential damage.
Upgrading your home – You can also take measures to improve the fire resistance of your home. This includes installing non-combustible roofing materials, such as metal or concrete tiles, and ensuring that your roof is in good condition. Additionally, installing screens on windows and vents can help prevent embers from entering the house and starting a fire.
Checking your insurance policy – It’s important to check your home insurance policy to ensure that you are adequately covered for bushfire damage. This includes reviewing the coverage limits and exclusions. It’s also important to ensure that you have an up-to-date inventory of your possessions in case you need to make a claim.
Having a bushfire plan – Finally, it’s essential to have a bushfire plan in place. This should include an evacuation plan, a designated meeting point for family members, and an emergency kit containing food, water, and first aid supplies. You should also make sure that everyone in your household understands the plan and knows what to do in case of a bushfire. The Rural Fire Service has put together a helpful checklist – https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/resources/bush-fire-survival-plan
Stay informed – Make sure you are subscribed to any local alert lists for your area and street. The Rural Fire Service in the Hawkesbury posts a number of updates on their Facebook page so it is a good idea to follow them – https://www.facebook.com/HawkesburyRFS/ Additionally, it is a good idea to have a battery-powered radio on hand in case of power outages.
Preparing your home for the bushfire season is not something that should be taken lightly. By taking action now, you can help protect your property and keep your loved ones safe. Remember to clear your property, remove flammable items, upgrade your home, check your insurance policy, and have a bushfire plan in place. With these precautions in place, you can minimise the risk of damage caused by a bushfire and ensure that you are well-prepared for any potential emergency.