Parliamentary Secretary for the Illawarra and South Coast Gareth Ward MP today announced that local fire brigades including Jamberoo, Gerringong, Cambewarra, Broughton Vale/Berry and Albion Park brigades will open their doors to the community this weekend to help people be aware and prepare for bush fire risks this summer.
Mr Ward said that it is particularly important for residents who live near bushland and areas prone to grass fires to start preparing now and take the time to participate in Get Ready Weekend.
“With the entire state in drought and ongoing warm conditions expected over the coming months, it’s more crucial than ever for residents to be vigilant around their properties,” he said.
“We’re fortunate to have some of the most skilled and experienced firefighters in the world here in NSW; however, they’re facing a potentially long and protracted bush fire season so we all need to do our part in the community to be as prepared as possible.
Mr Ward encouraged residents to visit their local brigade to pick up vital fire safety information, and thank our outstanding local firefighters for the tremendous work they do to help keep our communities safe.
“I urge 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 your lives,” he said.
The top four tips to getting ready for bush fire season are:
- Discuss what to do if a bush fire threatens your home;
- Prepare your home and get it ready for bush fire season;
- Know the bush fire alert levels; and
- Keep all the bush fire information numbers, websites and smartphone app handy.
NSW RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said Get Ready Weekend is a great opportunity for families to get to know their local firefighters and find out about the fire risk in their area.
“We’ve already seen during August how quickly fires can develop and threaten homes and lives, so it’s a timely reminder to get ready,” Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.
“The first step in getting ready is knowing your risk, and local brigades can help you with that while providing valuable advice on preparing your home and family.”
A range of displays, demonstrations and activities for families will be available this Get Ready Weekend. Find out more via www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/getready.
You can download a Bushfire Survival Plan at: https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/resources/bush-fire-survival-plan.