Victorian Bushfire Readiness: A Guide for Homeowners and Tenants
In Victoria, bushfire safety isn't just a recommendation - it’s a necessity. Preparing your property and your family for the summer months is the most important task you’ll undertake this year.
Don’t "wait and see." Protect your home, your investment, and your loved ones by planning ahead.
Why This Matters for Our Customers
For Homeowners: Early preparation creates a "defensible space" that can be the difference between a property surviving a fire or being lost to embers.
For Rental Providers: You have a duty of care to ensure the property is maintained. Documenting your fire-ready maintenance can also be vital for insurance purposes.
For Tenants: Understanding your local risk and having a "Leave Early" plan is essential for your personal safety, especially if you are new to a high-risk area.
1. Understand the New Fire Danger Ratings
As of 2022, Victoria uses the Australian Fire Danger Rating System (AFDRS). It is simpler and clearer, but it is vital you know the new levels:
Moderate: Plan and prepare.
High: Be ready to act.
Extreme: Take action now to protect life and property.
Catastrophic: For your survival, leave bushfire risk areas today.
The best way to stay safe is to leave early. On Extreme or Catastrophic days, this means leaving the night before or early in the morning.
2. Create Your Bushfire Survival Plan
A well-thought-out plan takes the panic out of a high-stress situation. Ensure everyone in your household knows:
When to leave: Based on the daily Fire Danger Rating.
Where to go: A primary location (like a friend's home in a low-risk suburb) and a backup.
How to get there: Identify at least two different driving routes.
Pets & Animals: Include leashes, bowls, and bedding in your plan.
3. Pack Your Relocation Kit (The "Go Bag")
Don't waste precious time searching for essentials. Keep a kit ready to go by the door:
Safety Gear: Battery-powered radio, torch, spare batteries, and wool blankets (wool protects against radiant heat).
Communication: Mobile phone, chargers, and a list of emergency contact numbers.
Medical: First-aid kit and at least 5 days of prescription medicines.
Documents: Passports, insurance papers, Medicare cards, and photos/keepsakes (or a USB backup).
Supplies: at least three litres of water per person, non-perishable food, and pet food.
4. Prepare Your Property (Defensible Space)
Whether you own the home or are renting, keeping the garden clear can significantly reduce the risk of ember ignition.
Clear the Gutters: Remove dry leaves and twigs. (Tenants: if you cannot safely reach gutters, contact your Property Manager).
Mow the Grass: Keep lawns cut to under 10cm.
Clear the Area: Move woodpiles, LPG cylinders, and outdoor furniture away from the house.
The "Embers" Check: Ensure gaps under doors are sealed and vents are covered with metal fine-mesh.
5. Essential Resources & Contacts
Stay informed using official channels. Do not rely on social media alone:
VicEmergency App: Download and set up "Watch Zones" for your property.
CFA Website: cfa.vic.gov.au
Emergency Hotline: 1800 240 667
Emergency Broadcasters: ABC Local Radio is the primary source for emergency updates.
In an Emergency: Call 000 (Triple Zero).
A Note for Our Clients
At Barry Plant, we are committed to the safety of our community.
Landlords: If you need a referral for a trusted contractor to assist with gutter clearing or vegetation management, please reach out to us for our list of recommended tradespeople.
Tenants: If you have concerns about fire hazards at your rental property, notify your Property Manager immediately.