DON’T CALL THE STATION
As I’m sure everybody is already aware, this time of the year is regarded as Bushfire Season and along with that comes the necessity to prepare our property and ourselves for any threatening fire situation. This involves making sure that we have a bushfire survival plan ready, being aware of the risks to the area in which we live and also taking the recommended steps to prepare our property, bearing in mind that an unprepared property is not only at risk itself but may also present an increased risk to neighbours.
Featured Image(above): Call 000, not the station – Bribie Island Station Officer Wayne Brown
Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) advises that all Queenslanders should be familiar with the official Bushfire Warnings System and know how to access important information and updates when there is a bushfire in their area, using that information to make decisions and take any necessary action. Bribie Island QFES Station Officer Wayne Brown said that during bushfire season, everyone should remain vigilant and observe any media releases which relate to fire bans and advice notices.
‘If anyone sees smoke or even suspects that there is a bushfire, they should call 000 immediately,’ said Wayne. ‘Always call 000 when making an emergency call to report a fire. Never call the station in an emergency situation,’ he added. There are many ways to make your home and family “bushfire ready” and they include keeping gutters and downpipes clear of leaves and other rubbish, making sure that yards are kept tidy and free from any build up of flammable material, enclosing open areas under decks and flooring and ensuring that garden hoses are long enough to reach the perimeter boundary of your property. Ensure that all members of your family know of the community evacuation area location and also make sure that you consider the physical, mental and emotional preparedness of all family members.
A bushfire can present a very frightening situation and strong winds, as well as intense heat, will make you tired quickly Thick smoke will make breathing difficult and you may become isolated in dark and noisy conditions which will be both physically and mentally demanding. If you have any doubt about your ability to cope, you should plan to leave early. Whilst there are a number of websites which feature lists of steps to take when preparing for bushfire season, detailed information may be found at the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services web page which is http://www.qfes.qld.gov.au
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https://thebribieislander.com.au/queensland-fire-emergency-service-alarming-statistics/