City of Rockingham praises bushfire preparedness of residents

CITY of Rockingham Emergency Services team are pleased with some resident’s preparedness in case of a bushfire.

Council is currently checking for cleared firebreaks and reduced fire loads in accordance with its annual Fire Control Notice.

Volunteer firefighter Steve Leavy is bushfire ready along with many neighbours in and around Karri Street, Karnup.

He maintains his firebreaks, conducts hazard reduction burns and has established a bushfire protection zone around his house.

Although it took a near miss from a fire 10 years ago to keep him fire hazard alert.

He also joined the Singleton Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade to stay educated about fire risks.

“The big issue is complacency,” he said.

“We haven’t had a big fire come through here yet but when it does, it could be disastrous.

“Simple things like keeping your verge grass low, pruning trees up, removing ground fuel and making the most of restricted burning periods to burn off can make a big difference.”

Baldivis property owner Linda Cummins has not yet built on her land but is not leaving anything to chance and has installed firebreaks and cut long grass.

“We have good relationships with our neighbours and we have to work together to ensure everyone’s safety,” she said.

Mayor Barry Sammels said 90 infringements had been issued this year for non-compliance with the Fire Control Notice.

But he was encouraged by those doing the right thing.

“Properties like Steve’s and Linda’s deserve gold stars for the excellent work they have done,” he said.

“The City is no stranger to bushfires and we need everyone to do their bit to make fighting fires easier for our emergency services.”

For more information on how to ensure your property is best prepared for a bushfire and information on the Fire Control Notice, contact the City’s Emergency Services team on 9528 0333 or visit the City’s website on www.rockingham.wa.gov.au/firecontrol.

Visit the Department of Fire and Emergency Services website at www.dfes.wa.gov.au for copy of its Prepare Act Survive booklet.