With the warmer weather approaching, preparation for fires in and around the house is extremely important.
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Clean out your gutters and remove piles of rubbish, weeds and leaf matter from around the home to help protect against bushfires. Keep your lawns short and gardens well maintained and trim overhanging branches.
If you live in bushfire prone areas, ensure you complete your Bush Fire Survival Plan. Have hoses long enough to reach around your house, and if you have a pool, tank or dam, put a Static Water Supply sign on your property entrance so that firefighters can easily identify water supplies.
It's also important to remember that during total fire ban days open fires and certain types of barbecues, such as those fuelled by hot coals, cannot be used.
Never leave cooking on the barbecue or in the kitchen unattended. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of house fires in NSW. Firefighters respond to about 3865 house fires each year, with 45 per cent of these originating in the kitchen.
Inspect your barbecue before use. Make sure connections on hoses are tight with no leaks. Never use a hose that is perished or cracked.
Fire and Rescue NSW firefighters are urging residents to find the water hydrant on the footpath or street closest to their home, and ensuring it is clear of grass, vegetation, dirt and debris.