INFORMATION ON HOW TO
DEAL WITH A BUSHFIRE IN YOUR AREA
Prepared by BRAG Darlington, from literature
produced by FESA and the Shire of Mundaring.
Fire alerts are available by
- radio ABC 6WF/720
- telephone 1300 657 209 for a recorded message
- web site www.fesa.wa.gov.au/alerts
To protect your home and family from the devastation of bushfire, you are strongly advised to follow this basic advice throughout the year... remember, prevention is best:
click here for printable PDF version of these notes:
Are you ready for a bush fire?
Bush fires are a threat to everyone in Darlington. Being prepared (for more detailed information contact the Community Safety Unit, FESA 9323 9302) and having a plan are essential for protecting your property and your family’s welfare. Follow this basic advice:
Preparing your property:
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Do not have combustible plants and trees, other material such as firewood, timber and flammable liquids close to your street verge, house, sheds and fences.
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Remove dead trees and branches, rake up leaves regularly. Clean out gutters.
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Ensure power lines are clear of overhanging branches.
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Install an approved smoke alarm.
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Box in eaves and under house areas.
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Put metal fire wires and mesh on all gaps and vents to keep out sparks.
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Put wire flyscreens on your windows (helps protect the glass).
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Make sure hoses will reach around your property.
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Make provisions for your pets and stock.
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Consider installing roof-top sprinklers.
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Plan what you and your family are going to do should a fire threaten your property.
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Have a plan if a fire should occur when you are not at home.
If a fire is threatening your property:
For latest information listen to radio ABC 6WF720, telephone 1300 657 209 for a recorded message or log on to www.fesa.wa.gov.au and go to "emergency alerts".
Make a decision whether to stay or leave. If you decide to leave, go early, having secured your house as best you can. Choose a safe destination.
If your home is well prepared, and you feel you can cope with the stress of battling a fire:
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Wear protective clothing (long trousers, long sleeved shirt made from wool or cotton), sturdy shoes, a hat, gardening gloves and eye protection (goggles or glasses).
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Drink plenty of water.
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Turn off evaporative air conditioners, but leave the water running.
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Block downpipes. Fill gutters with water. Fill baths and containers for an extra water supply.
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Close all windows, doors, blinds and curtains. Use wet towels to block gaps below doors (to prevent smoke and sparks getting in).
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Bring outside furniture inside.
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Soak blankets and towels and keep handy as protection from radiant heat.
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Don’t climb onto the roof.
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Leave sprinklers running. Spray water on high-risk areas of the house.
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As the fire approaches move hoses and people inside and stay there until the fire has passed (usually 5 – 10 minutes)
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Afterwards, extinguish spot fires – check under and in the roof space.
TO REPORT ALL FIRES RING 000
24 hour Shire of Mundaring fire weather information hotline 9290 6644
Prepared by BRAG Darlington, from literature produced by FESA and the Shire of Mundaring.