Rural Fire Service Open Weekend Saw Record Turnout
The NSW Rural Fire Service saw incredible attendance for their Get Ready Weekend on the 16th and 17th of September, where fire brigades all around the state opened their doors to residents to help them get ready for the upcoming fire season.
Commissioner Rob Rogers was pleased with the turnout: “Many RFS brigades have reported record turnout at Get Ready Weekend events this year. This is reflective of the community’s concern ahead of the coming bushfire season, which will see a return to hot and dry conditions following three years of wet weather.”
Residents in the Hills and Hawkesbury flocked to their local fire stations to learn how to best prepare for the upcoming dry summer season. Mayor of the Hills Shire Dr. Peter Gangemi was thankful to each brigade for their work. “I attended the Box Hill/ Nelson and Sackville brigades, and both had truly outstanding events that were very well attended. Well done to all our brigades for a job well done this weekend.”
Hawkesbury Mayor Sarah McMahon also attended the open day and celebrated the work of each brigade. “I visited Freemans Reach Rural Fire Brigade and the RFS Glossodia Brigade and I was so impressed with their displays. Thank you to all our wonderful NSW Rural Fire Service volunteers.”
The Get Ready Weekend couldn’t have come at a better time – hot and windy conditions saw total fire bans introduced on Tuesday 19th and Wednesday 20th September with high risk ratings as many fires burn across the state. The Bureau of Meteorology officially declared an El Niño event on Tuesday, and NSW Premier Chris Minns has warned of a “horror summer” for bushfires.
5 TOP STEPS TO MAKE YOUR HOME SAFER
1. TRIM: Trim overhanging trees and shrubs. This can stop the re spreading to your home.
2. MOW: Mow grass and remove the cuttings. Have a cleared area around your home.
3. REMOVE: Remove material that can burn around your home (e.g. Door mats, wood piles, mulch, leaves, paint, outdoor furniture).
4. CLEAR: Clear and remove all the debris and leaves from the gutters surrounding your home. Burning embers can set your home on fire.
5. PREPARE: Prepare a sturdy hose or hoses that will reach all around your home. Make sure you’ve got a reliable source of water.
