Planning ahead of the fire season should be done by anybody who lives near areas that have significant bush, forest, long grass or coastal scrub.
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Keep away from danger.
A written and well-practiced action plan will help everyone in the household stay calm and know what to do in the event of an emergency.
How to plan
Bushfire plans are individual and will vary from property to property, no matter where you are in Australia. This is because there are different hazards, threats, items to consider, refuge points and more.
Numerous fire authorities in Australian states and territories have information on their websites to help you write a bushfire plan.
Discuss the plan with your local fire authority to ensure it covers matters that are relevant to your property and region.
Read more: Bushfires to be more frequent
A good plan should include what to do:
- before the Fire Danger Season
- on a Total Fire Ban day
- during a bushfire
- after a bushfire
It should also be adaptable to unforeseen circumstances.
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Listed below are some points you may wish to consider in your plan:
- Which Fire Danger Rating is your trigger to leave?
- Will you leave early that morning or the night before?
- Where will you go?
- What route will you take – and what is your alternative in the event that a fire is already in the area?
- What will you take with you?
- What do you need to organise for your pets or livestock?
- Who do you need to keep informed of your movements?
- Is there anyone outside your household who you need to help or check up on?
- How will you stay informed about warnings and updates?
- What will you do if there is a fire in the area and you cannot leave?
- Include who will do what as part of your plan.
Your destination and journey
Knowing where you can go that is safe to visit on a fire risk day could potentially save your life.
On such days, consider going to areas including libraries, shopping centres, swimming pools or cinemas.
Share your bushfire plan
Give copies of your bushfire plan to family, friends and neighbours.
This will make them aware of what your plans are in the event of a bushfire and where they might be able to find you.
