Bushfire’s move incredibly fast and are so unpredictable. Most tragedies occur when the bushfire changes direction and people cannot respond fast enough. This reality outlines why it’s so important to be prepared.

Bushfire Survival Plan

Having a practical plan in place is vital. There are four overarching things you must do to prepare.

1. Discuss: you and your family need to understand what your plan is going to be in the event of a bushfire.
2. Prepare: what you’ll need to do in order to prepare your home will differ from location to location as some will require more intensive preparation. But all homeowners can take simple steps like clearing the gutters and sweeping leaves away from the house.
3. Know: know the bushfire alert levels and understand the danger ratings
4. Keep: up to date with all the local bushfire information via phone & apps. Bushfires conditions can change rapidly so it’s vital that you are monitoring these updates.

For a more comprehensive guide filled with notes & checklists visit https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/resources/bush-fire-survival-plan and download the guide.

Prepare Your Valuables

We hope it never comes to an escape, but in the event of an emergency evacuation, the worst thing we can be is disorganised. Knowing where your belongings are is essential. It’s easy to put off this thought as the movement toward preparation carries with it a sense of reality. It is one we don’t like to accept but particularly for rural areas, bushfires are a constant threat in the summer months. The goal is not to live in fear but in one of contentment that you know you have done all you can in the event of the worst scenario.

List Of Valuables

If you need to escape from a bushfire, it is important to only bring the essentials. Do not slow the evacuation process by trying to carry larger items or to pack heavy suitcases which are difficult to transport. These items are simply suggestions, what is considered ‘valuable’ differs from one person to another so the choice is yours.