Preparing for bushfires

Every Australian knows how dangerous bushfires can be; even in the heart of the suburbs.

 

Here are some tips to help reduce the risks:

• clean guttering of leaves and rubbish
• close off wind drafts under the house
• enclose eaves between the roof and the house
• prune trees so they cannot come into contact with power lines
• remove flammable items from near the house (e.g. door mats, wood piles, paper boxes, crates, hanging baskets, wooden garden furniture etc)
• clear vegetation and ground fuels from around the house (long dry grass, dead leaves, branches and thick undergrowth)
• if a bushfire breaks out in your area, keep a radio handy to keep informed of what's happening
• if ordered to evacuate, turn off main power switches in your meter boxes before leaving. This will reduce the chance of damage to electrical equipment and the risk of electrical wires short-circuiting or sparking
• when re-entering your home, check the condition of overhead power lines running from the street to your building. If they appear damaged or are sagging, call Integral Energy immediately on 131 003
• if you come across a damaged or fallen power line, keep yourself and others well clear and report it immediately to Integral Energy on 131 003 or emergency services on 000.

 

For more information visit www.bushfire.nsw.gov.au