As conditions become drier and warmer the threat of bush and grass fires is returning. Photo: NSW Rural Fire Service – Far South Coast Team, Facebook.
The Rural Fire Service (RFS) is urging Far South Coast residents to prepare for the upcoming bushfire season.
With ongoing dry conditions across the Far South Coast, RFS Superintendent Chris Anderson says now is an ideal time for residents to review their bushfire survival plans, prepare their properties and discuss what they will do if threatened by fire.
As part of preparations, residents could include joining firefighters on 19 and 20 September for the Get Ready Weekend.
Superintendent Anderson is encouraging everyone in the Far South Coast region to meet their brigade at one of the more than 520 events being held across the state.
The events are designed for locals to chat with their brigades and learn how to prepare and protect their homes.
“Preparing for bushfires is easier than people may think and often includes many of the common household chores that come with maintaining a property,” Superintendent Anderson said.
“Perhaps the most important thing you can do is take a few minutes and ask, if threatened by fire, when will you go, what will you take, and where will you go?”
Research from the RFS shows that while 70 per cent of people say they have a bushfire plan, less than half have actually taken steps to prepare their property, and 62 per cent are unaware that there are free RFS resources available to help them prepare.
“Emergency services will always do everything we can to protect communities, but every household also has a responsibility to be prepared,” Superintendent Anderson said.
Superintendent Anderson laid out some simple steps to reduce the risk fire poses to properties.
Steps include trimming overhanging trees and shrubs, mowing grass and removing clippings, and removing flammable items from around the home.
Property owners are also encouraged to clear debris and leaves from gutters and prepare a sturdy hose that can reach around the home.
“After recent years of wet weather, we know bushfires haven’t been front of mind for a lot of people,” Superintendent Anderson said.
“However, that rain has come with significant vegetation growth, and as conditions become drier and warmer this summer, the threat of serious bush and grass fires is returning.
“Now is the time for residents to start thinking about what needs to be done to prepare their homes and families, and Get Ready Weekend is the perfect opportunity to have these conversations.”
A full map of events for Get Ready Weekend can be found online and those who are unable to attend can learn how to create a bushfire survival plan by visiting myfireplan.
