TIME TO BE BUSHFIRE PREPARED

This week’s humidity and gusty winds is a reminder for all Queenslanders living in and around bushland to finalise their preparations for the up-coming bushfire threat.

Emergency Services Minister Neil Roberts said people should make preparing their properties a priority.

“The Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFRS) is reporting an increase in fire activity throughout the state, with over 900 fires recorded since July, so it is important that the public take steps now to prepare their homes in case of fire,” he said.

“We’ve already seen bushfires in most regions of the State this week, and as conditions are expected to ease over the weekend it is a good opportunity to take advantage of that fact and prepare your property now.”

Mr Roberts said the QFRS had recently released a new policy “Prepare, Stay and Defend or Go Early”, aimed at educating residents on how they can work with firefighters and decrease the fire risk to their properties.

“Under this new policy firefighters and Police still have the power to evacuate if the situation becomes too dangerous, however those who have thoroughly prepared may be able to stay and defend their properties,” he said.

Residents in and around bushland can prepare their home by:

•Removing, cutting or mowing bushes, grass and weeds around sheds fences and gates;

•Clear overhanging branches from the roof and clean gutters;

•If you have a water system, pump or generator, check they are working;

•Establish a clear buffer zone of least 40 metres around your house and other buildings;

•Keep hoses at the ready;

•Keep areas, such as garden beds, clear of fine fuels;

•Buy a battery powered radio to listen to bushfire updates;

•Organise full length protective clothing (wool, cotton), including gloves, eye protection, work boots and a broad brimmed hat.

“Another important thing is people need to be vigilant – if they see people acting suspiciously in the vicinity of a fire they need to report it – a large number of bushfires are deliberately lit and we all have a part to play in bringing firebugs to task,” he said.

For more information on bushfire preparation visit www.fire.qld.gov.au .

Media contact: Tim Shipstone 07 3247 8194, 0409 620 571.

Brendan Connell 07 3247 8992, 0437 837 976