Bushfire Advice

Gary Vince is an experienced firefighter, having spent six years as a member of the Bedfordale Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade before joining the Roleystone Karragullen Bush Fire Brigade early last year, where he heads up the Community Bushfire Ready Group.

Be Bushfire Ready

As we are fast approaching the bushfire season, having a Bushfire Plan is essential as part of your bushfire ready strategy. A good plan will give you the best chance of survival should a fire come your way. FIVE MINUTES is all it takes to have a fire chat with your household - ask yourself:

At what point should we leave?

What will we take?

Where will we go?

What route will we take?

These small tips could save your life. If ever in doubt – LEAVE EARLY. 

Being fire-ready could save your life.

Be Prepared

It is important to get your property prepared. Below is a list of jobs to do to help:

• Clean gutters and fit gutter guard.
• Keep your garden free from fallen leaves and other flammable materials.
• Repair any damaged roofing to prevent embers entering the roof space.
• Ensure areas under the house are free from litter.
• Fit roof sprinklers.

Planning to stay and defend?

Everyone in your home must understand what it takes to be completely prepared:

• Ensure your property is fire safe following the steps above.
• Organise protective clothing for each member planning to stay.
• Have the appropriate fire-fighting equipment.
• Tune in to local radio stations such as 720 ABC Radio or 6PR for frequent updates about the situation.

Importantly, know your fire-ratings and know your own limits and always remember, you can’t outrun it or outlast it, so plan to outsmart it. 

For information and resources visit dfes.wa.gov.au/firechat

Gary Vince 177136 on 0450354525 or email rkbfbbushfireready@outlook.com