Summer is fast approaching and before it gets too hot, it is a good idea to ensure both your property and family are prepared for any bushfires that may threaten your property this season.
Firstly, you might want to check if your home is located within a bushfire prone zone. You can do so by checking with your local council or visiting the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DEFS) website - https://www.dfes.wa.gov.au/bushfire/bushfireproneareas/.
Whether you are renting your home or own it, there are things you can do to help ensure you are prepared this bushfire season. Did you know that under Section 33 of the Bushfires Act 1954, local councils may issue notices requiring owners to install firebreaks and undertake hazard reduction?
Simple tasks to undertake
The tasks that you can undertake include making sure the gutters are cleaned, any damage to the roof and external walls is repaired, and sealing any gaps where embers could start a fire. Also remember to cut back any overhanging branches and conduct major tree lopping if required.
If you are renting, it’s likely your landlord is responsible for these items. Make sure to contact your property manager if you are concerned about any of these issues.
In addition, ensure your lawns are mowed regularly, the weeds are down, and your door mat is non-combustible. If possible, keep LP gas cylinders away from the direction of the fire and point valves outwards.
You also might want to consider purchasing a hose with metal fittings, which is long enough to reach all areas of the house. For those renting, these items are your responsibility.
Help your family prepare
To ensure your family is prepared, consider preparing an emergency kit with important papers, medication, and personal belongings. DFES also recommend including essential supplies such as a radio, torch, spare batteries, first aid kit, woollen blanket, water and non-perishable food.
Once finalised, run through your emergency kit contents with your entire family and place it in a well-known location, so if there is an emergency it can be located easily by everyone.
It is also a good idea to have a backup plan in case you cannot leave the property, check that your house and contents insurance is adequate to cover all your belongings and research how to find the latest information to ensure the entire family understands advice warnings as they appear.
More information
Bushfires happen every summer in Western Australia and are unpredictable. They can flare up suddenly and without warning, so it is imperative to take responsibility for reducing the risks to your house and family.
For more information on how to prepare this bushfire season, make sure to visit the DFES website. Alternatively to keep up to date with the latest bushfires that are occuring in WA, visit the Emergency WA website.
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