Prepare for bush fire

The NSW Rural Fire Service is advising Peninsula residents living near bush fire prone areas to prepare their homes and families for possible bush fires after reports of hotter temperatures expected for the region.

"People who live or holiday in bush fire prone areas need to formulate a bush fire action plan," community safety officer with Gosford district Inspector Rolf Poole said.

"If you haven't got a plan ready, then now is the time to do it.

"It doesn't take much effort and it will help you to decide whether you are going leave early, or stay and defend.

"To protect your family and loved ones it is recommended to plan now while we do not have any fires in the area because the situation can change very quickly.

"If an emergency arises, your bush fire action plan can be quickly implemented.

"Think about young children, the elderly or disabled and your pets.

"A relocation plan and kit are essential elements of the leave early plan.

"Consider what documents you will need if things turn for the worse and put them in an easily accessible box or folder.

It is most important to leave early, well before the fire front arrives.

"Leaving at the last moment can have disastrous consequences."

Inspector Poole said if residents choose to stay and defend their homes during a bush fire they must be appropriately dressed

"You should be dressed appropriately in protective cotton or wool clothing and have equipment around the home ready for use," Inspector Poole said.

"A bushfire readiness kit should also be prepared in advance.

"A well-prepared house can be the best defence and residents should take refuge inside until the fire front has passed.

"Never stand on your roof during a bush fire event.

"Your home has a much greater chance of surviving a bush fire if it is prepared.

"Clearing long dry grass, dead leaves and branches from around the house and from your gutters is essential.

"Other flammable items including wood piles and obvious flammables such as paper, fuels, boxes, crates and wooden garden furniture moved away from the house."

For more information visit www.gosford.rfs.nsw.gov.au or call 1800 679 737.

Press release, 5 Jan 2009 Rolf Poole, NSW Rural Fire Service Gosford District