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Guidance

Fighting a sustained forest/bush fire has risks.

Evaluate the risk between life and property.

Remember. People before property.

To defend a location for fire requires substantial planning and resources. Prepare your building before an event.

Consult local fire brigade units on tips and tactics.

Prepare your property

– Clear your house gutters of leaves

– Prepare ground hoses

– If you have fire extinguishers, check the pressure and expiry date. They have a shelf life.

– Note water storage areas in the neighborhood

– If you have water storage with open access, fill the storage i.e. dam. These can be used by helicopters to draw water from, and fight fires.

If you are considering creating a fire break, an area around your property free of vegetation which reduces the risk of fire entry to your property, talk to your local government, Clearing of vegetation in some jurisdictions is illegal and may result in fines.

If there are insufficient resources available or it is too late, secure the building(s) and leave the area at the earliest opportunity.

Equipment to consider

– Fire blankets

– Fire extinguishers

– Axes to break down barriers to entry / exit

– Goggles or eyewear

– Leather or heat proof gloves

– Face masks to reduce the risk of smoke inhalation