Spring brings about a need to prepare your homes and properties for the bushfire season. The drier winter months, coupled with the low humidity and gusty westerly winds that traditionally arrive in Spring, increase the threat of bushfire. August to late October is when Queensland usually experiences its bushfire season.
Most buildings lost in bushfires are often ignited by embers that collect in guttering and eaves or blow into scrub around the home.
You can take steps to prepare your property by removing, cutting or mowing bushes, grass and weeds around sheds, fences and gates; clearing overhanging branches from the roof; cleaning gutters and buy gutter plugs; establishing a clear buffer zone around your house and other buildings; keeping hoses at the ready; and if you have a water system, pump or generator, check they are working.
Information is available to householders through the Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFRS) Bushfire Prepared Communities program, by contacting local fire stations, accessing the QFRS website at www.fire.qld.gov.au or the QFRS Rural Fire Service website at www.ruralfire.qld.gov.au.
All residents should discuss what they would do in a bushfire situation with their family.
Fire Danger Period Declared
The Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFRS) has declared a Fire Danger Period resulting in new rules on the lighting of fires.
The Fire Danger Period means Queenslanders will not be allowed to light a fire, regardless of the size, without a permit from midnight Sunday 4 September to midnight on Sunday 1 January 2012.
It is common practice for QFRS to implement a Fire Danger Period during bushfire season as a step towards preventing fire from escaping and potentially putting lives and property at risk.
A Fire Danger Period is not a Fire Ban. It simply means that you may need to receive a Permit to Light Fire for fires where a permit is not usually required, however there are still some types of fires that can be lit without a permit during the Fire Danger Period.
For more information please visit the Queensland Fire and Rescue Service website www.fire.qld.gov.au or click here.
Be Prepared - Natural Disasters Happen
Rockhampton Regional Council in partnership with the Queensland and Australian Governments, Queensland Fire and Rescue Service and Emergency Management Queensland have developed the DVD Be Prepared - Natural Disasters Happen.
This DVD contains significant footage and information in relation to Storm Surge, Cyclone and Bushfire to assist you in preparing to counter such events and protect yourself, your family and property. Click here to view the DVD.
Burning Off
Council prohibits the burning of materials in the Rockhampton Regional area.
Barbecues using dry timber are not a problem, however smoke must be kept to a minimum.
For information relating to smoke hazards and "burning off" contact Councils Customer Service Centre on 1300 22 55 77.