We may be still coming to terms with the fact that it's already September but with summer on the horizon, it's important we start thinking about the reality of bushfires.
Today is an important day to think about how bushfires impact your property and what you need to do to prepare.
In October, our contractors will begin to audit and undertake works on specific fuel management zones within our bushland reserves and on priority roadsides. In the lead-up to summer and during the declared fire danger period, our contractors inspect private land for fire hazards.
What you can do to reduce bushfire risk on your property:
- keep grass short
- clear gutters of leaf litter
- remove piled vegetation and other flammable items from around your home
- cut back overhanging branches and prune shrubs
- remove fallen and dry vegetation, including leaves, bark and twigs.
The CFA website has useful resources to assist you in preparing your property for a bushfire: cfa.vic.gov.au/plan-prepare
It's handy to remember the Australian Fire Danger Rating System (AFDRS). This uses technology and research to accurately predict fire behaviour and the potential threat to the community.
Fire danger ratings provide information so people in affected areas can take action to protect themselves and others. The higher the fire danger, the more dangerous the conditions and the greater the impact will be if a fire starts. Learn more about the new fire danger ratings here: emergency.vic.gov.au/firedangerratings.
If you need help with the maintenance of your property, please visit our website: mornpen.vic.gov.au/fpn
Quotes attributable to Mayor Councillor Steve Holland:
"It's better to be safe than sorry. By getting on the front foot at your private property, you're reducing fuel and protecting what's yours. If your grass is overgrown, your gutters are filled with leaf litter and tree branches are strewn around your home, make the time to prepare your property before summer."
