With authorities predicting increased risks of bushfires this spring and summer, Northern Beaches Council is encouraging residents to get prepared this weekend.

NSW Rural Fire Service is holding Get Ready Weekend from 16-17 September, with local brigades running events across the Northern Beaches to provide helpful advice and tips on keeping your property safe. 

Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heins said now is the time to prepare your home and property.

“We are fortunate to live so close to such beautiful bushland here on the Northern Beaches, but this also puts our neighbourhoods at risk of bushfires,” Mayor Heins said.

“The National Council for Fire and Emergency Services has predicted increased risk of fires across the state, including the Northern Beaches.

“Fortunately, there are steps we know can help reduce the risk of fire threatening your home.  Now is the time to prepare your bushfire survival plan with four easy steps.

“A well-prepared is easier for firefighters to defend and is less likely to put your neighbours' homes at risk, so Get Ready now.”

The four steps to your bushfire survival plan are:

Step 1 – Discuss what to do if a bush fire threatens your home

Many households find that having a discussion over dinner works best as everybody is together and focused. Use myfireplan.com.au to guide your conversation.
 

Step 2 – Prepare your home and get it ready for bush fire season

There are simple things you can do around your home to prepare it for a bush fire such as:

  • Trimming overhanging trees and shrubs
  • Keeping lawns short and gardens well maintained and removing material that can burn around your home e.g. wood piles, mulch and leaves
  • Removing debris and leaves from your gutters, and installing metal gutter guards
  • Preparing a sturdy hose/s that will reach around your home. 

Step 3 – Know the bush fire alert levels

If there is a fire in your area you will find its alert level on the NSW RFS website and in the ‘Hazards Near Me’ app. You need to keep track of the alert level so you know what you should do.

Step 4 – Keep all the bush fire information numbers, websites and the ‘Hazards near me’ app

In a bush fire, it’s important that you stay up to date on conditions in your area. Even if your plan is to leave early, the more you prepare, the more likely your home will survive a bush fire or ember attack.

For more information on keeping your property safe check out the Get Ready website.

To find out more about local events this weekend visit Council’s website.

 

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