Prepare, Stay and Defend, or Go Early

Bush Fire SafetyThe most frequently asked question during a bush fire is "Should I stay and defend my property or go early?"  This is a question you and your family should answer before the start of the bush fire season.

If you have prepared your home prior to the bush fire season and maintained that level of preparation, and are physically and mentally prepared, your home may provide you with a safe option from which to stay and defend during a bush fire. If you decide to go, do so early.  This is much safer than trying to make a belated dash escape on roads covered in thick smoke or fallen trees. Emergency vehicles are also in danger of being hit by other vehicles in thick smoke.

For more detailed information on how to make an informed decision, download the following brochures or contact the Shire Rangers for your copy of a Bush Fire Stay or Go Kit or visit the FESA website for further information.

Brochures
Go Early? (PDF)
Making the decision to stay or go early? (PDF)
Stay and Defend? (PDF)

FESA Fact Sheets
Fact Sheet: Bush Fire - Survival Kit (164Kb PDF)
Fact Sheet: Bush Fire - having a plan (165Kb PDF)
Fact Sheet: Bush Fire - Prepare your property (166Kb PDF)
Fact Sheet: What will happen during a bushfire (164Kb PDF)
Fact Sheet: How to Find Information During an Incident (83Kb PDF)

Please see the Fire Prevention section of the website to see the Bush Fires Act 1954, Section 33 (1)

IMPORTANT DATES 

Restricted Burning Times (PERMITS REQUIRED): Between the 2 November 2009 to 30 November 2009, and between the 1 April 2010 to 30 April 2010. You may obtain a Burning Permit by request at the Shire of Kalamunda Administration Office.

HINTS FOR BURNING

  • Don't light a fire on a hot or windy day.
  • Don't try to burn more than you can control.
  • Inform and notify your neighbours and others as specified in the permit.
  • Make sure smoke and sparks will not create a nuisance to your neighbours or road users.
  • Cut or rake long grass and fuel from around trees, buildings and fences before burning.
  • On a sloping block, burn from the top down.
  • Have a hose or spray pack to dampen down fierce fires.

(Note: These Fire Control Officer's are Shire Staff and Volunteers, their availability to issue permits may vary in some instances, including attending emergency incidents within your community. Please assist them by planning early your permit requirements.)

Prohibited Burning Time (TOTAL FIRE BAN.) between the 1st December to 31st March 2010

Fire Breaks are required on your property between the 1st December 2009 to 31st March 2010.

FIREBREAKS
Firebreaks are a simple and effective method of protecting your property from fire. Reduce Fire Hazards. Slash Long grass and Remove Fire Hazards on Your Property.
Firebreaks:

  • reduce the spread and intensity of fires
  • allow access for fire fighting vehicles
  • provide a break from which back burning may be commenced.

PROPERTY PROTECTION ADVICE – ‘DON’T FUEL FIRES’

  • Don't have thick vegetation right up to the walls of your home.
  • Clear all flammable material from around houses, sheds and fences.
  • Store firewood, timber, petrol and kerosene well away from the home.
  • Don't have flammable trees such as conifers near buildings.
  • Clear all dead leaves out of gutters regularly.
  • Remove rubbish regularly.
  • Rake up leaves, twigs and dead material regularly.

Reducing fire hazards is the responsibility of each and every one of us. It’s not difficult, but to be effective, everyone has to help.

Fire • Ambulance • Police 000

 


Bush Fire Safety
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