PROPERTY PROTECTION – WHAT CAN YOU DO?
Preparing your home before fire season is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your family and property. The St Albans RFS is here to support you with practical advice, safe burning information, and Property Inspections. The RFS has requested Mud Maps of all properties in the Macdonald Valley area - please ensure that yours in up to date.
How You Can Protect Your Property
Create a defendable space
• Clear leaves, sticks, and debris from around your home
• Keep grass short and vegetation trimmed
• Remove flammable materials from verandas and under decks
Maintain access for emergency vehicles
• Ensure driveways and gate access are clear
• Make sure property signage is visible
Prepare water sources
• Keep hoses in working order and long enough to reach around your home
• Check pumps and water tanks
Reduce fuel loads
• Safely conduct hazard reduction like pile burns (see guidance below)
• Remove excess vegetation, fallen branches, and clutter
Have a Bush Fire Survival Plan
• Know whether you will leave early or stay and defend
• Make sure everyone in the household knows the plan
Pile Burns – What You Need to Know
Conducting a pile burn can be a great way to manage vegetation and reduce fuel…but it must be done correctly.
Before you burn:
- Check if you need a permit – A Fire Permit is required during the Bush Fire Danger Period. More information about the fire permit can be found here:
- Notify your neighbours – At least 24 hours’ notice.
- Notify the RFS – Use the “Notify of Burns” page on the RFS website or contact your local brigade.
Notify us of your planned burn - NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE
- Check the weather – Avoid windy days and ensure conditions are safe.
When burning:
- Keep the burn small and controlled
- Have a water source available (the Fire Trailer can assist in some cases and is available through the Macdonald Valley Association.)
- Ensure someone is supervising the burn at all times
- Maintain a cleared area around the burn
- Never leave the burn unattended
- Ensure that the size of the pile does not exceed 2m in length and 1.5m in height
After burning:
- Fully extinguish the pile
- Check the area again later—deep ash pits can re-ignite
- Record what you’ve done for your fire preparation plan
Safe pile burning is one of the best ways to reduce fuel loads—helping protect your property and our community.