“You hope you never need to enact this plan, but having one can save vital minutes and potentially save lives.”
rn
Mr Gallagher said there are steps that every household can take to better protect themselves and their properties from fires.
rn
WFI’s top tips to reduce fire risk include:
rn
1. Ensure there is a cleared area around your property, firebreaks between paddock boundaries and suitable access for water tankers or fire trucks
rn
2. Remove flammable material from the immediate perimeter of the property, and place oils or fuels in covered sheds away from the home
rn
3. Keep water tanks full and connected to pumps, and prepare hoses that reach around your home
rn
4. Carry out regular maintenance checks on harvesters, specifically the moving parts that generate heat like bearings and belts
rn
5. Regularly clean harvesters to remove build-up of dust, straw, chaff or other crop debris
rn
6. Trim overhanging trees and shrubs from around your home, keep grass short, remove all debris and leaves from gutters and downpipes if safe to do so
rn
7. Monitor fire danger ratings and declared fire bans, and conduct activities in line with your State or Territory fire authority’s requirements
rn
8. Have an emergency kit ready which includes battery powered radio, torches and spare batteries
rn
9. Check your insurance cover is up to date and reflects current rebuilding costs, debris removal and has allowances for temporary accommodation if needed.
rn
WFI remains committed to supporting rural and regional businesses and farms to reduce risk and build resilience through its national network of authorised representatives.
