Preparation is the key to a safe bushfire season

As the warmer weather returns to Queensland, Police and Community Safety Minister Jack Dempsey is urging residents to prepare for bushfire season.

Mr Dempsey said parts of northern Queensland have already been experiencing bushfire activity and now we are seeing the southern parts of the State drying out - a clear indication that we should all be finalising our bushfire preparations.

“Queensland fire crews have been working under Operation Cool Burn since May, conducting hazard mitigation activities across the state in anticipation of the 2013 bushfire season,” Mr Dempsey said.

“This operation is continuing and to date more than 178,700 hectares of fuel has been burnt in more than 1,820 hazard reduction burns.

“In addition to this, Rural Fire Service Queensland (RFSQ) volunteers have been working hard to educate people in bushfire prone communities about the potential dangers they face and how to prepare for bushfire events.”

Queensland Fire and Rescue Service Commissioner Lee Johnson said some Queenslanders may not be aware of their bushfire risk, with many now living in areas that were once farming land, semi-rural areas or dense bushland.

“Everyone, especially those living in areas close to dense vegetation, should take steps now to protect themselves and their family during a bushfire,” Mr Johnson said.

“I urge all residents to visit the RFSQ website, www.ruralfire.qld.gov.au and download a bushfire survival plan as a first step.”

Mr Johnson said a few simple actions can mean the difference between life and death.

“This plan will help you and your family answer questions about whether you will stay to defend your home during a fire, whether you leave long before the fire approaches, where you will go, how you will get there and what you will take with you,” he said.

“It will also guide you about what to include in your relocation kit and where to keep it.”

[ENDS] 13 August 2013

Media Contact: Alexandra Foley 0418 256 910 or Danny Donald 0439 719 116