Bushfire Mitigation Manager Mick Thomson urges Townsville to prepare for bushfire season
The man responsibile for mitigating the bushfire risk across Townsville has issued a desperate plea to North Queensland ahead of the danger season.
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With the winter weather over and temperatures rising property owners and residents in the Townsville region need to prepare for the bushfire season.
Bushfire Mitigation Manager Northern Region Mick Thomson said it was important for people to prepare their property and themselves from the risk of bushfires.
“We want people to be more vigilant and if they do see fire dial triple zero and make sure you have a fire preparedness plan for your property and make sure you understand what you need to do if fire in your area,” the Inspector said.
He said there had been a number of fires in the region in the past two weeks.
“There have been numerous fires in the area and we have had to take exceptional amount of resources to contain and suppress those fires which has taken a couple of days.
“We want property owners and people in bushfire prone areas to take note of their vegetation loading is or fuel loading.
“Make sure they have the appropriate amount of measures in place such as clear driveways for us to access that they do have levels of fire breaks in their areas.”
He said small property owners in semirural areas also needed to prepare for potential bushfires.
“What we have is a Bushfire Survival Guide for people and that goes through everything from the time you are in your property to the time you are out of your property,” Mr Thomson said.
“It gives you all the information around the levels of preparedness for yourself but also the property, about how to manage your risk on your property.
“When to stay, when to leave and information around the fire danger ratings.
“From September 1 this year there has been a new Australia Fire Rating system implemented throughout the Queensland.
“That information can be found on our (QFES) website and also through the Bureau of Metrology website as well.
“So when you do see a warning that comes up over your phone or radio it tells you this is a message or an advice or an emergency warning, know what that means so when you do get those messages that come through you are prepared and know what to do.
“We also have a Permit to Light system for Queensland where you will be able to find your Fire Warden who can give good guidance and advice on your risk in your area.
“Also when you write your permits out with that person they will provide you with mechanisms, strategies and structures to control the fire and place restrictions or conditions that will make it safer for you.”
For more information go to www.qfes.qld.gov.au/ and navigate to bushfires.
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