Image Caption: Mayor of The Hills Shire, Dr Michelle Byrne, and Hills Shire Councillor, Mitchell Blue, with RFS volunteers.
The Hills Shire Council, in partnership with the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS), is urging residents to take action and prepare for bush fire season through its annual Four Weeks to Fire Ready initiative.
Commencing on 1 October, the month-long program aims to help residents take practical and achievable steps to better prepare their households for bush fire season.
This year's program comes as authorities monitor forecasts of hotter and drier conditions associated with El Niño, which have the potential to increase bushfire danger and reinforce the importance of preparing early.
Mayor of The Hills Shire, Dr Michelle Byrne, said getting prepared for bush fire season doesn't have to be overwhelming.
"Getting ready doesn't happen in a day. By taking one simple step each week, every household can be better prepared for bush fire season," Mayor Byrne said.
"Many people think bush fires only affect homes near bushland, but it's important for everyone to understand their risk and have a plan.
"Preparing doesn't have to mean doing everything at once. The Four Weeks to Fire Ready program makes getting prepared easier, one step at a time."
Residents are encouraged to begin by completing a Community Preparedness Survey to assess their readiness and identify ways to improve their bush fire planning.
Participants will receive a personalised preparedness score and tailored feedback, helping them understand what they are already doing well and where further action may be needed.
To help promote the program ahead of its commencement, Hills Shire libraries will host a series of fire safety-themed activities throughout September, including visits from volunteer firefighters during Storytime sessions at selected library branches.
These sessions will provide families with an opportunity to learn more about bush fire preparedness and the importance of getting ready.
Hills Shire Councillor Mitchell Blue, Co-Project Lead for the initiative and a volunteer with the NSW Rural Fire Service, said preparation was most effective when undertaken before bush fire season begins.
"The best time to prepare is before a bush fire threatens your community," Councillor Blue said.
"One of the most important things households can do is have a conversation about their Bush Fire Survival Plan. Talk about what you'll do, where you'll go and when you'll leave if a fire occurs.
"Prepared communities are built when residents, neighbours, local brigades, Council and community organisations all work together to reduce risk and stay informed."
Throughout October, residents will be guided through four weekly themes designed to build knowledge and confidence:
Week 1: Discuss - Know what you and your family will do if a bush fire threatens.
Week 2: Prepare - Take simple steps around your home to get ready for bush fire season.
Week 3: Know - Understand Bush Fire Danger Ratings, alerts and warnings.
Week 4: Keep up to date - Know where to find reliable bush fire information when you need it.
As part of this year's initiative, Council will also pilot a one-off green waste collection service in a designated area of Rouse Hill, helping residents dispose of vegetation and reduce potential fuel loads around their properties.
For more details about the program and to sign-up, visit Council's website, www.thehills.nsw.gov.au and search 'Bushfire Protection - Be Prepared'.
