Controlled burns are taking place across Moreton Bay amid planning for the new, and possibly early, bushfire season.
Moreton Bay council says the controlled burns will reduce the risk of catastrophic fires and have been completed at Mount Glorious, Albany Creek and Upper Caboolture.
More burns are planned as residents are urged to prepare just in case.
Mayor Peter Flannery says council looks after more than 10,000 hectares of bush but adds that everyone has a role to play.
TIMING CONTROLLED BURNS
“Unlike southern states, South-East Queensland’s bushfire season typically begins in July and runs until October but the bushfire risk can extend well into February,” he says.
“(The) city will continue conducting hazard reduction – or planned – burns when the conditions are right.
“We should never become complacent with preparation efforts and residents should remain vigilant, acting now to prepare their homes and family.”
STATE RISK ASSESSMENT: The latest Seasonal Bushfire Outlook expects a normal fire risk for Queensland but that a dry winter could mean an early start to the bushfire season. The outlook was produced by AFAC, which supports Australian and New Zealand firefighting operations.
“Regardless of where you live, bushfires can impact anyone anywhere,” he says, adding that all households should create a bushfire survival plan.
“We can’t always prevent natural disasters from occurring but as a community we have a shared responsibility to ensure we are as prepared as possible if the unexpected happens,” Flannery says.
GETTING READY
- Trim low-lying branches and native shrubs close to your house.
- Remove all rubbish, leaf litter, firewood and fuel containers.
- Stock up your first aid kit.
- Check and update your home and contents insurance if needed.
- Review and update your Bushfire Survival Plan.
- Download the GetReady kit checklist.
- Ensure pets are included in your emergency plan. Source: Moreton Bay City Council.
Residents can find out if their area is prone to bushfires with Postcode Checker and see if their home has a bushfire hazard overlay map with council’s My property look up.
Stay informed about controlled burns and active fires by signing up to MoretonAlert for SMS and email updates.
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