By JONATHON HOWARD
A QUICK response from Queensland Fire and Rescue Service has saved an Acacia Avenue home from being engulfed by flames in Warwick on Monday.
However, fire crews fear other residents may not be so lucky this summer season as fuel loads reach staggering levels and properties remain dangerously unprepared for fire outbreaks.
Three fire units converged on the property, which was to the rear of Wood Street, after a 000 call was made at about 9.30am.
The fire destroyed a backyard shed and threatened to spread to the main house before fire crews brought the flames under control within about 15 to 20 minutes.
The cause of the fire is under investigation by both Warwick Police and QLD Fire and Rescue Service Officers.
Station Officer Dennis Burton said there were some fears the shed may have contained asbestos.
“Quick action by firefighters saved the house which was slightly damaged,” Officer Burton said.
“Firefighters on the scene donned breathing apparatus as we suspected there was asbestos in the shed.
“We also advised the nearby school to switch off air-conditioners and close their windows until the area was deemed safe.”
Mr Burton said no one was injured during the blaze and the resident was assisting authorities with their investigations.
The fire should serve as a reminder to other residents to prepare for the fire season, he said.
“Now is not the time to become complacent about the up-coming fire season,” Mr Burton said.
“We would like to encourage residents to do everything they can to prepare, act and survive.”
BREAK OUT
BUSHFIRE survival plans details residents can prepare and what action they will take if threatened by a bushfire.
A well-prepared home has an increased chance of survival in a bushfire.
During a large-scale event, Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFRS) will not be able to place a fire truck at every property so it is therefore even more important to have a solid plan in place.
The bushfire danger period has arrived and the threat of major fires breaking out across Queensland in the urban / bushland interface and rural areas is very real.
By taking a few precautionary steps people stand a much better chance of protecting their families and property from fire. Residents in high risk areas should take measures now to prepare their properties for the bushfire season, including:
– Clean leaves from gutters, roofs and downpipes regularly and fit quality metal leaf guards.
– Screen vents on roof voids with fine metal wire mesh to prevent sparks from entering.
– LPG cylinders around your home should have pressure relief valves facing outwards so that flame is not directed towards the house.
– Keep woodpiles well away from the house and covered.
– Cut back overhanging trees, keep grass short and rake up flammable leaves, twigs and cuttings.
– Do not deposit tree loppings, grass clippings etc behind your property into council reserves or bushland, as this will increase fire intensity.
– Ensure your garden hoses are long enough to reach the perimeter boundary and make sure fire pumps, hoses and accessories are in working order.
– Make sure that any fire hydrants near your home are easily located and not obstructed.
These simple steps can make all the difference in protecting your home, business and family from a fire.
