It’s that time of year when the weather is getting warmer and drier – which means we will soon be in the bushfire season. If you are new to farming and haven’t prepared for fire season before, there are a number of things you should be doing BEFORE summer hits. If you are writing up a bushfire management plan, here are some things to include in your to do list.
Identify fire risks
The onset of warmer weather in spring coupled with retained winter soil moisture brings with it increased pasture growth. With things starting to dry out, that can leave a lot of standing fuel in your paddocks. Clearing boundaries by slashing, plowing or grazing will create firebreaks that can help to protect your farm from neighbouring grass fires. If you have stands of trees, check for dry undergrowth that could provide fuel for fires. Piles of rubbish or bonfire heaps should also be cleared. If your fire ban season has not yet been enforced, use this time now to strategically burn off to get rid of them. Try to make sure that flammable materials such as fuel, wood piles etc are stored away from houses or vehicles.
Maintain machinery, roadways and access points
Ensure that machinery is well maintained, especially electrical or petrol based equipment that may produce sparks. Keep roadways and access points clear so that emergency vehicles can safely enter your farm if needed. If you do need to use machinery on hot windy days, ensure you carry the correct fire extinguishing equipment in case of spot fires. Be aware that power may be lost during fires, so having a backup generator could be a good idea. This can even be wired up to a nearby water pump so you may have the option of fighting fires if you choose to stay. Ensure water storage units for that purpose are kept filled and ready for use. If you have aboveground powerlines on your farm, ensure overhanging branches are kept trimmed.
Prepare for animal safety
Whether you decide to stay or go, your livestock don’t have a choice. Prepare an area with little to no grass or undergrowth so in the event of a fire, there is a relatively safe space for them to move around. Make sure there is good fencing and water that does not rely on electric pumps. If animals need to be moved, do so earlier in the day so they aren’t spooked by fire or smoke. Ensure all animals are tagged with your PIC, so if they do escape they can be returned to you.
Write a bushfire management plan
Sit down with your family and discuss what your bushfire management plan will be. This should be assessed annually, with everyone understanding their roles and responsibilities in the event of a fire. Think about installing the VicEmergency app on your phone to let you know of location specific alerts within your watch zone. If you plan to stay, have everything ready to keep yourself as safe as possible such as;
- Natural fibre long-sleeve shirt and pants.
- Leather boots and gloves.
- Woollen socks.
- Wide-brimmed hat and goggles or large glasses.
- Mask or towel for covering mouth and nose.
- Drinking water.
- First aid kit.
- Torch, portable radio and associated spare batteries.
- Equipment for fight fires – hoses, wet towels and woollen blankets, knapsack spray.
Remember to try to keep as much skin covered as possible, no matter how hot it may be. And if authorities recommend evacuating – leave before it is too late.
Follow the law
If you have received a fire prevention notice, ensure you complete all necessary works to comply with this. If you don’t you may receive a fine, as well as any costs associated with your local council undertaking works on your behalf.
Keep an eye on total fire ban days. It is illegal to light fires of any sort including solid fuel barbecues on declared fire ban days. Even use of equipment such as chainsaws and mowers should be avoided, and if it is deemed essential the user must carry a fire suppressor at all time. Beekeeping activities using smokers, welding, incinerators, and scare guns are all prohibited on fire ban days. Be aware of what activities can and can’t be conducted and stay safe.
Nobody wants to have to deal with the threat of a bushfire, but having a plan will ensure you are as prepared for fire season as possible. No matter how important your farm is, remember it is always better to be safe than sorry. Good luck preparing for the fire season.
Cheers and happy farming!
Chris 🐑
