Bushfire Awareness
Practical fire-safety know-how for families and campers — how to light fires safely, protect a home, and what to do when a fire comes close.
Safety starts with you
Fire services and rescue teams provide help in many emergencies, including bushfires — but the first responsibility for the safety of lives and property lies with each of us. This program covers simple, practical steps that protect your family, your home and your campsite.
Wherever you are, follow local fire regulations: in dry, hot periods the lighting of fires is often restricted or banned altogether, and those rules must always be obeyed.
Campfires and cooking fires
When fires are banned, campfires, solid-fuel barbecues and ovens must not be lit. A gas or electric barbecue may be safe to use if it is under the direct control of an adult, the ground for three metres around it is cleared of anything that could burn, and water is close at hand.
At other times, light a campfire only in a proper fireplace, or on a site with at least three metres cleared of combustible material. An adult must be in attendance at all times, and the fire must be completely put out before you leave. Never burn household rubbish, food waste, building materials or industrial waste.
How to protect your home
Clear dry grass, thick undergrowth, dead leaves and branches from around the house, and keep gutters and roofs free of leaf debris. Prepare firebreaks — a well-watered lawn works well — and move woodpiles, paper, boxes and wooden furniture away from the walls. Make sure gas cylinders vent away from the house.
Keep the fire brigade’s number by the phone, enough water and hoses long enough to reach every side of the house, and buckets, mops, ladders, rakes and shovels together in one place. Have a battery radio and torch ready in case the power fails, and agree a fire plan for every member of the family, including pets and animals. If the authorities order you to evacuate, you must go.
What to do during a fire
Listen to the radio for news of the fire rather than calling the emergency services for information. Dress in protective clothing and drink water often. Hose down the house and garden, especially on the side facing the fire; block downpipes and fill gutters with water, and put wet towels against gaps under doors and windows.
As the fire gets close, go inside and stay there until it has passed, checking the roof space for small spot fires. Afterwards, patrol your property and put out any spot fires started by flying embers.
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