Reducing bushfire risk – everyone’s responsibility

Bushfires can strike in Queensland at any time with devastating consequences, which is why it is important to mitigate risk and be prepared.

The Central Highlands Regional Council is teaming up with Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) to remind residents to get bushfire ready, as part of the annual Operation Cool Burn program.

Council’s Coordinator Disaster Management and Community Resilience Glenn Bell said below average rainfall and prolonged high temperatures could mean the region is in for another challenging season.

‘Now is the time to prepare as much as we can,’ he said.

‘Council has developed a bushfire plan in consultation with QFES and other local stakeholders, identifying high-risk localities, high-risk hotspots and mitigation actions.

‘These actions include hazard reduction burns to reduce fuel loads, improvement of strategic fire breaks by landholders and targeted community education.

‘But everyone has a part to play.’

Mr Bell said there are simple steps people can take to ensure they are bushfire ready.

These include:

· Clear leaves, twigs, bark and other debris from the roof and gutters.

· Purchase and test the effectiveness of gutter plugs.

· Enclose open areas under decks and floors.

· Install fine steel wire mesh screens on all windows, doors, vents and weep holes.

· Point LPG cylinder relief valves away from the house.

· Conduct maintenance checks on pumps, generators and water systems.

· Seal all gaps in external roof and wall cladding.

· Display a prominent house or lot number, in case it is required in an emergency.

· Ensure there is adequate access to your property for fire trucks – 4 metres wide by 4 metres high, with a turn-around area.

· Reduce vegetation loads along the access path.

· Mow your grass regularly.

· Remove excess ground fuels and combustible material (long dry grass, dead leaves and branches).

· Trim low-lying branches two metres from the ground surrounding your home.

Mr Bell said every household should also have a bushfire survival plan prepared and keep it in a safe place, ready for use at short notice.

For tips and resources on how to create a plan and ensure your property is prepared for bushfire season, visit the Queensland Government Rural Fire Service site.

For information on upcoming scheduled hazard reduction burns in the Central Highlands region visit council’s website or call 1300 242 686