With the bushfire season having officially commenced on 1 September 2018 and more than a third of the state now entering the ‘Bushfire Danger Period’, Member for Ku-ring-gai, Alister Henskens SC MP, has reminded residents to have a plan in place.

Mr Henskens declared that the NSW Government was well prepared for the bush fire season, with the arrival of Large Air Tanker (LAT) ‘Boomer’.

“The NSW Government continues to ensure our devoted firefighters have the best support possible and are equipped with the necessary resources to protect our community, as they have done so courageously and effectively in the past,” Mr Henskens said. 

‘Boomer’ can dump more than 11,300 litres of water or fire retardant at a time, and will be used for direct attacks on both bush and grass fires, creating containment lines, and providing urban interface protection.

Mr Henskens said it would be just one of many weapons utilised this season to assist Ku-ring-gai firefighters.

“This impressive aircraft will supercharge the efforts of our local firefighters on the ground so that both lives and property have the maximum possible protection this season,” Mr Henskens said. 

Mr Henskens added that it is critical for residents to be proactive in their own preparations for the fire season and to make sure they make or update their ‘Bush Fire Survival Plan’.

“People should also bear in mind that embers can be blown a great distance ahead of a bush fire, travelling several streets and potentially igniting spot fires,” Mr Henskens said. 

“So whether or not you live near bushland, it is absolutely essential you plan ahead and safeguard your property by doing things like clearing gutters of leaves, maintaining gardens, and checking that your garden hoses can reach all corners of your property.”

Ku-ring-gai residents can learn more about bush fire preparation at one of 600 events across the state on Get Ready Weekend, on 22 and 23 September 2018.

Firefighters will be available at station open days as well as local events to provide advice on reducing the risk to your home.

Visit www.rfs.nsw.gov.au to find out what is happening in Ku-ring-gai and, for further information on making a ‘Bush Fire Survival Plan’, visit www.myfireplan.com.au.