Summer in Western Australia means sunshine, beaches, and unfortunately, the increased risk of bushfires. As a homeowner or renter, your safety and the security of your property are paramount during bushfire season. This market update provides essential information and tips to help you prepare.

Understanding Your Bushfire Risk

Knowing the risk in your area is the first step. If you’re currently in the market to buy or rent, this interactive map is an invaluable resource. Powered by data from multiple government agencies, including Landgate, it allows you to check if a specific address is bushfire-prone (or located on a flood plain). Beyond bushfire risk, the map also provides insights into residential zoning, lot size, boundaries, utilities, proximity to public transport, schools, and more – crucial information for any property decision.

For existing homeowners, it’s also vital to check your property’s bushfire-prone status on the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) website. It’s worth noting that recent updates to bushfire zoning in November have removed some 4,500 properties in Perth, Peel, and parts of Bunbury from the bushfire-prone lists.

Preparing Your Property

Whether you own or rent, taking proactive steps can significantly reduce your risk. Local councils, under Section 33 of the Bushfires Act 1954, may issue notices requiring owners to install firebreaks and undertake hazard reduction in preparation for bushfire season. Here are some essential tasks:

• Maintenance is Key: Clean gutters, repair any roof or external wall damage, and seal gaps where embers could enter.
• Vegetation Management: Cut back overhanging branches and consider major tree lopping if necessary to minimize fuel. Renters should contact their property manager regarding these repairs.
• Lawn Care: Keep lawns mowed, weeds down, and use a non-combustible doormat to reduce hazards around your home.
• LP Gas Cylinders: Store gas cylinders away from the direction of potential fires, with valves pointing outwards.
• Firefighting Equipment: Consider purchasing a hose with metal fittings long enough to reach all areas of your property.

Protecting Your Family

Preparation extends beyond your property to your family’s safety. Create an emergency kit containing important documents, medications, personal belongings, a radio, torch, spare batteries, first aid kit, woolen blanket, water, and non-perishable food. Discuss the kit’s contents and location with your family so everyone is prepared for an emergency.

Develop a backup plan in case evacuation isn’t possible. Ensure your house and contents insurance is adequate. Stay informed by researching how to access the latest emergency information and ensure everyone in the family understands warning levels and advice.

Stay Informed

Bushfires are unpredictable. Visit the DFES website for comprehensive bushfire preparedness information. For real-time updates on current fires in WA, check the Emergency WA website. Being prepared is the best defense against the dangers. Holdsworth Real Estate is committed to providing you with the resources you need to make informed decisions about your property and safety during bushfire season.