After a very busy August, September was quieter, probably because the fire season was declared a month early. We completed some pile burns for local residents and assisted with a hazard reduction in Kenthurst. In this weather, even a small pile burns with enormous ferocity, as you can see.
Our new member has started his Basic Firefighter course, and some of us are attending a course to reaccredit our First Aid qualification.
One of our members joined a five-day strike team from The Hills and other Sydney districts to assist with massive bush fires out of control near Grafton. It was a valuable experience, Iona commented. She realised how lucky we are in The Hills, to be so well equipped. She made new RFS friends and they all learned to work quickly and effectively together on the fireground, with local tankers and equipment.
All of us should have our bushfire plans ready, and have a clear understanding of what we will do if bushfires hit Middle Dural. Have you worked out whether you will stay or leave? What will you do with your animals – horses, dogs and cats? A simple and excellent kit is available on line (rfs.nsw.gov.au) or download the app: MyFireplan App for IPhone or Android. As well, hard copies are available from The Hills District Office in Annangrove Road.
In addition, there are two further steps you can take to help us save your home.
Firstly, do you have locked gates? Please consider how our firefighting vehicles can access your property in a fire emergency. We are empowered to use bolt cutters on your gate. Are you happy with that?
Secondly, do you have a pool, dam or water tank? If so, a sign at your road frontage saying SWS (Static Water Supply) tells the RFS that we would have the means to save your property from impending fire. These signs are available from the District Office (96541244).
If you would like more information, please contact our senior deputy, Ken Middleton (0417 203 088) or District Office, (96541244).
