Tasmanian communities set to experience ‘above normal’ fire potential this bushfire seas

Pic: A Tasmanian Fire Service community field day at Lachlan

RACT Insurance CEO Trent Sayers is urging Tasmanians residing in bushfire prone areas to act early
and leave no stone unturned when preparing for the upcoming bushfire season.

The Outlook, released by the Bushfire and Natural Hazards Cooperative Research Centre says the
East Coast, the Derwent Valley and the South East corner will experience ‘above normal’ fire
potential while the remainder of the state will experience ‘normal fire potential’ due to a lack of
rainfall, soil dryness, and high fuel loads.

“The seasonal outlook highlights the need for Tasmanians to be prepared,” Mr Sayers said.
According to RACT Insurance claims data, 35% of households aren’t prepared and don’t know what
to do if a bushfire occurs near their home.

“This is a significant amount of households unprepared in the event of a bushfire,” said Sayers.
“If you live in or near the bush, your home is at risk from bushfire.”

“The biggest threat to any house in a bushfire comes before the flames are anywhere near you as
sparks and embers fly in the wind and land way ahead of the fire front.”

“Because of this, it’s very important to make your home as ember proof as you can by keeping your
home and your property clear of any debris.”

“High winds over the past few months are likely to have increased the volume of loose vegetation
which could settle on roofs and gutters. This is a good reminder to have a look over your entire
property including those places that are difficult to reach.”

Peter Middleton, Coordinator Community Development with the Tasmania Fire Service said, there
are many things home owners can do now to prepare ahead of the bushfire season including:

 Move wood piles, rubbish heaps, and other fuels a safe distance from your home
 Keep trees and gardens pruned
 Remove dry leaves and bark from lawns and gardens
 Ensure roof and gutters are cleared of debris
 Enclose areas under decks and floors
 Use wire mesh screens to cover any gaps in roof space

“All Tasmanian’s are encouraged to develop and practice their Bushfire Survival Plan. People need to
know their bushfire risk and make a plan” said Mr Middleton.

TFS is conducting a number of bushfire-ready events over the coming months through its Bushfire-
Ready Neighbourhoods program.

To view events coming up visit – www.fire.tas.gov.au/brn
RACT Insurance CEO Trent Sayers