SARAH ROHWEDER
With this summer set to be a scorcher, Queensland residents are being urged to commence early preparations for bushfire season.
Police and Community Safety Minister Jack Dempsey said fire crews and volunteers were conducting a series of hazard tests to eliminate the chance of outbreaks in dry areas.
“Queensland fire crews have been working under Operation Cool Burn since May, conducting hazard mitigation activities across the state in anticipation of this years’ bushfire season,” he said.
“This operation is continuing and to date more than 178,700 hectares of fuel has been burnt in more than 1,820 hazard reduction burns.
“Rural Fire Service Queensland (RFSQ) volunteers have been working hard to educate people in bushfire prone communities about potential dangers.
Mr Dempsey said those residing in bushfire prone locations would benefit from reading fire safety guidelines available online.
“Everyone, especially those living in areas close to dense vegetation, should take steps now to protect themselves and their family during a bushfire,” he said.
“I urge all residents to download a bushfire survival plan from RSFQ’s website as a first step.
“This plan will help you decide whether you will stay to defend your home during a fire or leave before the fire approaches, where you will go, how you will get there and what you will take with you.
“It will also guide you about what to include in your relocation kit and where to keep it.”