Serious bush fires have already hit parts of Sydney early in the season, and the Whitehorse City Council is asking all its residents to help prevent fires in the district. Whitehorse’s Mayor, Councillor Andrew Munroe, said people needed to be aware of the risk. He said:
“As we saw in Sydney and surrounds last week, warmer weather dries out fuel loads quickly and fire does not discriminate about the properties it damages and can take many people by surprise.”
The council offers advice to all property owners, including those in more urban areas such as Box Hill South, suggesting simple ways in which residents can help reduce the risk of fires.
These include keeping grass shorter than 20 centimetres, storing wood piles at a safe distance from the property and clearing gutters of loose wood and leaves. Residents should also check that they have hoses that can reach every part of their house in case they are needed, and comply with total fire bans when they are in force.
Council officers check properties regularly during fire season and can offer further advice to residents to make sure hazards are dealt with. Printing services could also be used to create leaflets or Brochures containing information on fire risks and how to deal with them.
More helpful information can be found on the council's website or the Metropolitan Fire Brigade website.
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