Bushfires: Spend this weekend preparing for a worst case scenario
Published 12 September 2019
The intense bushfire activity and dangerous weather conditions will continue for the foreseeable future, authorities have warned. Rain isn’t forecast until October at the earliest.
Moreton Bay Region’s Local Disaster Management Group Chair Cr Peter Flannery said residents should spend this weekend making evacuation plans and preparing their properties.
“We aren’t being alarmist, but we need locals to understand in no uncertain terms that they must be prepared for the very real threat of a bushfire disaster,” he said.
“Major bushfires are burning all around the Moreton Bay Region on the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, in the Scenic Rim and out to Stanthorpe.
“Moreton Bay Region is not immune. We have been fortunate to contain the fires that have popped up around our region, but disaster could strike at any time.
“If you haven’t already, sign up to our MoretonAlert system to receive up-to-the-minute advice during disasters direct to your mobile phone.
“But remember that when a bushfire ignites, there will be little warning. Do not expect Firefighters at your door. You will need to have already prepared your evacuation plan to keep your family safe.
“Write out a bushfire survival plan for your family this weekend and prepare a fire evacuation kit. Details on how to do both of these things are on Council’s website.
“You should also spend time in your yard proactively minimising the impact of bushfires by trimming trees and removing anything that could fuel a fire.”
Suggestions:
- Remove low-lying branches and cut-back trees.
- Trim shrubs growing close to your house.
- Pay to have your water tanks filled, if you have them.
- Mow your lawn short, but do this with someone spotting in case the petrol and heat in the machine spark a fire.
- Rake and remove leaf litter, remove firewood and remove fuel containers from your house.
- Make sure your roof’s gutters are clear, consider installing metal gutter guards.
- Rural property owners should check their water supply and if possible obtain an alternate power supply.
- You can lawfully clear a 10 metre buffer around your house without Council approval.
- If you have any concerns about what vegetation clearing is permitted, Council’s Development Services team can confirm.
- Talk to your neighbours and suggest they take the same preventative action.
Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) have imposed local fire bans for the Moreton Bay region until midnight Sunday, 15 September 2019.
Cr Flannery said he expected QFES to extend that ban in coming days.
“This is the first time Queensland has experienced conditions like this so early in a bushfire season,” he said.
“Shockingly, the majority of fires have started as a result of reckless or deliberate behaviour. So I implore locals to be vigilant and report unattended fires or suspicious activity immediately by calling Triple Zero (000).
“The most important thing is to stay informed and tune into warnings! Know where you will go if you have to leave and know what you’re going to take with you.
“Don't assume you'll receive a warning as a fire approaches and don't assume a fire crew will be available to assist every home.
“It's up to you to monitor conditions, know what the Fire Danger Rating is each day and tune into local media including radio, social media and websites.”
MBRC residents can stay up to date with the latest on the bushfires by following QFES on social media, visiting the QFES website and tuning into local radio.