Protecting Your Property

Seasonal checklist for protecting your property.

Winter

• Remove dead vegetation from around the home and prune lower limbs of trees.
• Obtain Council permit/permission to burn off garden waste, or dispose of the material through mulching.
• Ember-proof the home, eg check roof space for loose tiles and gaps and repair as necessary.

Spring

• Slash or mow long grass and remove cut material (unless it can rot down before summer).
• Remove weeds around sheds and fences.
• Cut back trees overhanging the roof.
• Remove fallen branches and other debris.
• Check and service all mechanical equipment, including grass cutters, water pumps, sprinkler systems and fire extinguishers.
• Remove leaves from gutters.
• Review and update your Bushfire Action Plan.

Summer

• Maintain a 20-metre fuel reduction zone around your home (greater if on a slope).
• Clear around trees.
• Remove leaves from the gutters.
• Slash stubble near sheds/buildings.
• Check reserve water supplies.
• Rehearse your Bushfire Action Plan with your family.
• Prepare evacuation kit.
• Ensure you have a portable battery-powered radio to hear bushfire warnings.
• Monitor fire restrictions.

Autumn

• Remove undergrowth and dead vegetation.
• Seek Council permission for a burn off.
• Check for any fire hazards and remove.