Residents reminded to be bush fire ready
Ahead of the peak bush fire danger period, City of Canterbury Bankstown is reminding residents to prepare their homes and families for potential fire threats.
Mayor Bilal El-Hayek is encouraging residents to plan ahead, clean up around their properties and stay informed through official emergency channels.
“We’ve seen how quickly bush fires can escalate and the devastating impact they can have on homes, businesses and our environment,” Mayor El-Hayek said.
“The biggest threat to us in Canterbury-Bankstown is ember attack from fires close to us. If embers land on flammable materials around your home, they can create dangerous and fast-spreading fires.
“The best defence is preparation. I urge every household to take a few minutes to talk about what they would do if a fire threatened their home.”
The NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) has a list of recommendations for residents, including:
- Clean gutters to remove leaves and twigs
- Keep lawns short and gardens maintained
- Cut back trees and shrubs overhanging buildings
- Clean up fallen leaves, twigs and debris around the property
- Have hoses long enough to reach around the house
- Check and maintain adequate levels of home and contents insurance
Residents should also be aware of Total Fire Ban days. These are days when the risk of fire is highest. On these days, no open fires should be lit or maintained – including outdoor barbecues or pizza ovens that use solid fuel.
Mayor El-Hayek added that Council is doing its part.
“We’re working closely with the Canterbury-Bankstown Georges River Bush Fire Management Committee to maintain asset protection zones and reduce fuel loads in high-risk areas,” he said.
“We all have a role to play in keeping our communities safe.”
Residents can access bush fire preparation resources and create a survival plan at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au.