By Kara Dubois
Hazard Reductions
With the official start to the fire season starting in October you may see continued Hazard Reductions (HR) taking place across Sydney when conditions allow. A hazard reduction may use a controlled burn as one way of preparing for future bush fires. Galston RFB is regularly active in assisting with many local and Greater Sydney based HR’s. Galston firies have been involved in several HR burns already this season, including a recent one at Simpson’s Hill, Maroota.
While hazard reduction burning is strategically planned to minimise the potential impact of smoke on public health, some members of the community may need to take action to mitigate the risks of smoke from hazard reduction burning by planning ahead.
To find out more about planned hazard reduction burns go to www.rfs.nsw.gov.au and select the ‘Fire Information’ tab.
Get Ready For Bush Fires
Galston RFB were part of Get Ready Weekend on 19th September with our station open to the public and Galston firies set-up outside the Bendigo Bank. Thank you to all the residents who spoke with us and sourced valuable information on the fire risk in our area and ways to prepare for bush fires.
As a reminder, there are 5 simple steps to prepare a property for bush fires:
1. Trim overhanging trees and shrubs to stop the spread of fire.
2. Mow grass and remove the cuttings, have a cleared area around your home.
3. Remove material that can burn, like wood piles and furniture.
4. Clear debris from your gutters to stop embers causing a fire.
5. Prepare a sturdy hose or hoses that can reach around your home and make sure you’ve got a reliable source of water.
Remember, you need to prepare well beforehand as leaving it to the last minute is too late.
It takes 5 minutes to improve or make a plan that will give your property, your family and yourself the best chance of survival should you be threatened by a bush fire. Take the first step in preparing for bush fire, visit myfireplan.com.au
For more information about preparing for a bush fire, please visit www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/plan-and-prepare or call the Bush Fire Information Line – 1800 NSW RFS (1800 679 737)
BRIGADE CONTACT DETAILS:
Duty mobile: 0491 119 152
Email: [email protected]
