Heavy rain ignites bushfire fears

Authorities are urging South West residents to prepare for a particularly dangerous bushfire season, after heavy rainfall has promoted significant growth of grass and bush.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ assistant commissioner for regional areas, Chris Arnol, said there was an overwhelming amount of fuel around populated bushland areas and homeowners should start preparing.

“An average fire season is not good, an above average season is critical,” Mr Arnol said.

“Listen to our message and understand what fire danger means.

“If there is a severe warning, get ready to do something, if it’s catastrophic, evacuate.”

Dardanup shire president Mick Bennett urged homeowners to protect themselves this season and comply with the requirements of Section 33 of the Bushfires Act.

“Our aim is to make the community safer,” he said.

“All ratepayers received the Fire Prevention Order and Fire Break Order for 2013-14 with their annual rate notices.”

Mr Arnol agreed, but said fire break orders were only a minimum requirement and homeowners need to be fully prepared.

“In preparation it is important to clear rubbish and vegetation around your property and create a 20m circle of safety,” he said.

“Keep grass short, prune bushes and make sure there is a two metre gap between vegetation and homes.

“Clear gutters, make sure pumps work and get rid of fuel from your back door to back fence by mulching.”

A series of fire awareness nights will be held at Dardanup Hall on October 1, Burekup Country Club on October 9, and council offices in Eaton on October 15.

Topics covered include the way fires spread, house designs and also preparation and factors that influence the decision to stay or leave if a fire approaches.

Mr Bennett said education was vital to preventing property damage and injury during the season.

“To prevent property owners from losing their lives or their property during bushfires there a is need to educate people to take the risk seriously and act responsibly to have their property safe for the coming fire season,” he said.