Bushfire Action Guide
In bushfires, radiant heat, dehydration and asphyxiation are the main killers. Well-prepared houses resist brief exposure to fire, protecting occupants who can then save their homes.Before The Bushfire Season - Prevent/Prepare
- Remove rubbish, leaf litter and native shrubs close to buildings.
- Form a wide firebreak around your home, eg short, green grass (use mower, spade, rake), trim branches well clear of the house. Clear roof and gutters of leaves...
If A Bushfire Approaches - Leave Or Protect
Prepare as above, unless you have decided to leave early or are ordered to do so. Stay in the house after taking these precautions:
- Phone 000 - don't assume the fire service knows.
- Turn off gas. Put door mats in...
If Caught In A Fire, Driving - Shelter In Car
- Don't drive into or near bushfires. If caught in a bushfire don't drive through flames or thick smoke
- Stop in an area of low vegetation. Leave motor running and airconditioner (recycle), hazard lights and headlights on. ...
If Caught In Fire, On Foot - Seek Shelter
- Don't panic - cover all exposed skin and hair.
- Move across-slope, away from the fire-front, then down-slope towards the rear of the main fire-front.
- Find open or already-burnt ground. Don't try to outrun fi...
Emergency Survival Requirements
If faced with the dangers of body dehydration, smoke inhalation and radiant heat from flames, emergency protection is possible, even in high-intensity fires. Wrap yourself in a heavy, pure wool blanket and carry water to drink; use moistened bl...