Stoney Creek

Volunteer Rural Fire Brigade

Protecting your home

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Here are some of the things the Brigade may be able to help you with:

Hazard Reduction

In this area, people on rural properties may need to do some burning off at some time - with the appropriate permits, of course. Here are just some of the things you will need to consider:

  1. Legal stuff
    • To do a hazard reduction burn you will you need a Bush Fire Hazard Reduction Certificate from the Fire Mitigation Officer at the Fire Control Centre.
    • If it is during the fire season, you will also need a Fire Permit from the Captain. Contact details are in the Stoney Creek Gazette, or available from the Fire Control Centre.

      • Click here for more information on permits, regulations and you.

  2. Safety First!
    • Make sure you assess the situation. Where will the wind come from? What will the weather be like? Do you have enough water on hand? Will the material burn quickly - you may need to opt for several smaller burns.
    • Make sure you have the right safety equipment. You should be wearing clothes made from natural fibres, which cover your arms and legs. It is a good idea to have a mask to cover your face from the smoke and heat (a nappy or old T-shirt works well). Keep well hydrated -- fire fighters are advised to drink a minimum of 1 litre per hour.

  3. Be a good Neighbour
    • Let your neighbours know you are burning off at least 24 hours prior.
    • Don't let fire escape your property -- you could be liable for any subsequent damage.

  4. Help the Brigade look after you
    • During the fire season, be sure to get a permit from the Captain. But remember, we need to give HQ in Queanbeyan at least 24 hours notice before we can issue a permit.
    • Even in the off season, please give the Brigade advance notice so we don't get called out when there is no fire emergency.

Property Protection

While we hope it never does, fire may threaten your property. Here are some things to help you.

  1. Be safe
    • Install smoke detectors, and check them regularly.
    • Keep fire blankets and extinguishers where you might need them eg the kitchen or the workshop.
    • Have an escape plan in case a fire surprises you. If you have young children, practice a family fire drill.
    • Attend fire awareness training run by the Brigade.
    • If you keep a blanket in your car, a woollen one will double as a fire blanket in case of emergency.

  2. Don’t forget the risks in winter.

    3. Many of us have wood or gas heating.
    • Have the flue cleaned and checked before you start using it in the cold season.
    • Be sure that nothing is close enough to catch alight.
    • Ash from a wood fire can still burn, so be careful where you empty the ash bucket.
    • And never leave a fire unattended.

  3. Before the summer fire season.
    • Reduce the hazard around your property -- don’t forget the shed and other valuable structures.
    • You can reduce the hazard by reducing fuel around your property.
    • Check your fire fighting equipment -- that your petrol (not electric!) pump is working, and your hoses are OK after winter.
    • Take care to avoid heat stress or heat stroke if working hard in the heat.

  4. During the fire season.
    • You must have a permit from the Captain.
    • Be sensible and be careful to avoid sparks on hot, windy and dry days.
    • Do not use a mower or slasher during a total fire ban -- sparks could start a fire.
    • Make sure you have water available in case you need it.

Prepare your family:
  • Plan what you are going to do -- leave or stay? The worst thing you can do is to decide to leave too late and get caught in the open by fire.
  • Make sure all family members know what to do in an emergency, especially if they are away from home. Captains Flat Rd could be cut by fire - make sure your kids know what to do if they can't get home from school.
  • Have a plan to cover your pets if there is an emergency. Please keep your pets with you during a bad 'fire day'. Have collars and leashes ready with name tags and contact details. Label your cat boxes / bird cage etc with the pet's name, gender, age, any medical condition and your contact details. And if you evacuate, you should take your pets with you. The RSPCA can assist during emergencies.
  • Prepare a kit to take with you if you are evacuated. This should have things you need - like medication or prescriptions - and things to make life easier - torch, radio, batteries in case the power goes out. Kids' kits might include something to keep them occupied.
  • Include in your kit some old clothes to wear if the fire gets close. Clothes should be natural fibres (thick cotton or wool) and cover your arms and legs. Add a broad brimmed hat (not straw!), gloves, goggles and a mask. Have a set of clothes for each family member.

If Fire Approaches:
  • Prepare your home. Make sure everything is as wet as possible. Put a bucket of water in the roof space. Clean your gutters of things that burn, and check embers cant get in under the house.
  • Listen to local news for updates. Listen and obey instructions from safety authorities -- including us!
  • Be safe. If you find yourself fighting a fire, wear heavy-duty clothes made from natural fibres that cover your arms and legs. Wear gloves and a mask. Remember to drink water -- 1 litre per hour is recommended if working in extreme heat.
  • Don’t take risks with your life -- it is irreplaceable.

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