Ongoing hot conditions increasing fire risk for the region – tips to be prepared

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services has extended its total fire ban for much of Central Queensland and has issued a statement about heightened fire conditions for the weekend.

Are you prepared?

The local fire ban will remain in place until 2359 hrs on Friday, 20 December for residents in the Central Highlands, Isaac, Mackay, Whitsunday, Woorabinda, Banana, Gladstone, Livingstone and Rockhampton Local Government Areas.

“Heightened fire conditions are perfect for bushfires to ignite and spread quickly,” A QFES statement read.

“Under a local fire ban all open fires are prohibited and all permits to light fire which have been issued in the designated areas have been cancelled.

“Power tools may be used during a local fire ban however QFES encourages people to use these with extreme care and ensure adequate equipment is available to extinguish any fire which may start.

“This may include having a person available to watch out for any ignitions that occur.”

FIRE PREPARATION ESSENTIALS…

1. A Fire extinguisher

2. Smoke detectors in every room

3. A fire blanket

4. A quick and easy way out (ie. don’t accidentally lock yourself in with key locked windows and doors)

5. Download the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services “Get Ready Guide” and  prepare your home and evacuation plan

6. Purchase good quality insurance sourced via an insurance broker and make sure your home and contents cover value is up to date.