Tuesday, 12 September 2017
AFTER the driest winter in 15 years, Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall is encouraging all residents who live near bushland and areas prone to grass fires, to start preparing for the season ahead.
Mr Marshall said last summer the State experienced some of the worst bushfire conditions on record and after a very dry winter, and with bushfire season approaching, the region was again facing very challenging conditions.
“Residents need to ensure their households and families are prepared for the worst case scenario this summer,” Mr Marshall said.
“I encourage households to update or create a Bushfire Survival Plan and make sure the whole family knows what to do when faced with a fire. It could save lives.”
This weekend the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) will host Get Ready Weekend at local Brigades across the Northern Tablelands.
Mr Marshall said residents could visit their local brigade headquarters to pick up vital fire safety information, and while there, thank the outstanding local firefighters for the tremendous work they do to help keep communities safe from bush fires.
When preparing for the bush fire danger period there are a few simple steps you can take to make sure you are fire ready, including:
• trimming overhanging trees and shrubs;
• mowing your lawn and removing all the cut grass;
• removing flammable materials from around your home (eg. door mats, wood piles, mulch, leaves, paint, outdoor furniture);
• clearing and removing all the debris and leaves from gutters; and
• ensuring you have a hose or hoses that can cover the perimeter of your home.
Last month more than 2,200 fires burned across NSW.
You can download a Bushfire Survival Plan at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/resources/bush-fire-survival-plan