South Australia Fire Danger: How To Protect Your Home From Weather-Induced Fires

Especially during the drought season, weather-induced fires become more common which can spread to communities and destroy houses. You have to stay safe by knowing about the risks and exercising the necessary precautions to keep your home protected. Here are some effective ways to keep your house safe from weather-induced fires.

Know the danger zones

NMSU says that people should be aware of the danger areas where weather-induced fires are more likely to start. Stay informed by getting updates from your local weather station on a daily basis to determine if you should keep watch on certain days. Areas located particularly close to forests are more prone to such natural disasters.

Invest in fire-resistant building material

NIFC reported that Australians should invest in noncombustible or fire-resistant materials when building or repairing their homes. The roof and walls of your home, in particular, should be made of materials like tile, sheet iron, aluminum, stone, slate or brick. Wood materials can further be treated with fire-retardant chemicals so these do not burn when coming in contact with fire. Although your home will not completely be indestructible, it will take longer for fire to burn the structure, allowing you enough time to contact the fire bureau.

Removing hazardous features

Some trees, structures and vegetation near your home will have to be removed to prevent fire from spreading. Cut down trees that are very close to your house or remove branches from trees with a height of at least 15 feet. Remove any parts of trees that extend to your home within 10 feet. If you have a flue opening in your stove or chimney, put non-flammable material over it. Keep gasoline and other combustible materials in a well-contained place that cannot easily be reached by weather-induced fire.

Invest in firefighting items

Always have a tank of water available especially during the drought season. Invest in a fire extinguisher and teach all members of the household how to use it. Prepare the fire department’s emergency number and put it on your refrigerator where everyone can see. Provide a protocol should a fire break out to ensure that all members are safe.

These measures will help keep your home safe from fire as well as prevent damage before it ever happens.

To contact the writer of this story, send an email to v.doctor@ibtimes.com.au.