1. Create a Defensible Space
A defensible space is a buffer between your home and potential fire hazards. Begin by clearing vegetation and any flammable materials within a 30-metre radius of your home. Prune low-hanging branches, remove dead plants, and keep grass trimmed to reduce fuel sources. Ensure that firewood, gas bottles, and other combustible items are stored well away from your home and outbuildings.
2. Maintain Your Roof and Gutters
Leaves, twigs, and debris that accumulate in gutters and on the roof can quickly ignite from embers. Regularly clean gutters and consider installing metal gutter guards to minimise debris build-up. Check your roof for any damage or gaps where embers could enter and make necessary repairs.
3. Use Fire-Resistant Materials
When possible, use fire-resistant materials for fences, decks, and outdoor structures. Metal or brick constructions provide better protection than timber. Windows and doors should have metal flyscreens and ensure that vents are protected with ember guards to stop embers from infiltrating your home. Upgrading to fire-rated doors and shutters can further enhance your home's resilience.
4. Keep Your Garden Fire-Safe
Planting native fire-resistant plants and creating garden layouts with non-flammable materials can help slow down a fire's progress. Maintain well-spaced trees and ensure that the lower branches are pruned to reduce ladder fuel that allows fires to climb into the canopy. Mulch garden beds with non-combustible materials like gravel instead of wood chips.
5. Prepare an Emergency Kit and Plan
A well-stocked emergency kit should include essentials such as water, food, first aid supplies, a torch, batteries, and protective clothing. Prepare an evacuation plan that everyone in the household understands. This should cover designated meeting points, multiple evacuation routes, and a checklist of important items to take if you need to leave at short notice.
6. Assess Your Insurance
Ensure your home and contents insurance is up to date and adequately covers bushfire damage. Take the time to check policy details, including what is covered and any exclusions. Photograph valuable possessions and keep a copy of your policy in a secure, accessible location.
7. Stay Informed
Monitor local emergency broadcasts, fire danger ratings, and community alerts. Download relevant apps or sign up for notifications from local authorities to stay informed about fire activity in your area. Being aware of changing conditions is essential for timely decision-making.
8. Seal Your Home
Prevent embers from entering your home by sealing any gaps or openings in walls, under eaves, and around doors and windows. Install weather stripping where needed and ensure that roof spaces and vents are covered with metal mesh.
9. Create a Firebreak if Possible
If your property is adjacent to bushland or has significant vegetation, consider creating a firebreak by clearing a strip of land between your home and the bush. This can slow or stop a fire’s advance, giving firefighters and residents more time to respond.