Prepare, Act, Survive Bush Fire Protection Plan (PDF File, 4.8mb)

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Fire Danger Rating
The Fire Danger Rating ( FDR) is an assesinen1 of the potential fire
behaviour, the difficulty of suppressing a fire, and the potential impact on
the community should a bush fire occur on a given day.
The FDR is determined by the Fire Danger Index (FDI). The FDI is a
combination of air temperature, relative humidity, wind speed and drought.
An FDI of 1 (Low-Moderate) means that fire will not burn, or will burn
so slowly that it will be easily controlled, whereas an FDI in excess of
100 (Catastrophic) means that fire will burn so fast and so hot that it is
uncontrollable.
Total Fire Ban
The RFS may declare a Total Fire Baii for days o increased fire danger,
based on advice from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM).
For more information go to www.rfs.nsw.gov.au or www.bom.gov.au .
Alternatively you can contact the local RFS Fire Control Centre
or NSW Fire Brigades station.
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Rules During Total Fire Bans
When a Fire Danger Rating is advised,
you need to take it seriously and be prepared to act.
Your survival may depend on it.
No fire may be lit in the open and all Fire Permits are immediately
suspended. This includes the use of incinerators and solid fuel barbecues.
You may use a gas or electric barbecue, but only if:
• It is on a residential property within 20 metres of the house or
• It is a permanent fixture within a picnic area managed by Council
National Parks or Forests NSW
and
• It is under the direct control of a responsible adult
• There is a clear area for 2 metres around the barbecue
• You have an immediate and continuous supply of water
Penalties for lighting a fire on a day of Total Fire Ban include a maximum
fine of $100,000 and 14 years imprisonment.

Call 000 (Triple Zero) in an Emergency
Fire Danger Rating i Fire Danger Index Potential Fire Behaviour
Impact Potential
RFS Information Line 1800 NSWRFS
Your Action FOR
t
• Fires will likely be uncontrollable,
unpredictable and very fast moving
with highly aggressive flames
'\- extending high above tree tops and
buildings.
Thousands of embers will be
violently blown into and around
/ homes causing other fires to start
and spread quickly up to
20km ahead of the main fire.
• Fire can threaten suddenly, without warning and be incredibly hot
and windy making it difficult to see, hear and breathe as the fire
approaches.
• People in the path of the fire will almost certainly die, or be injured
and significant numbers of homes and businesses destroyed or
damaged.
• Even well prepared and constructed homes will not be safe.
• Expect power, water and phone networks to fail as severe winds bring
down trees, power lines and blow roofs off buildings well ahead of
the fire.
• In the event of a fire, firefighting resources will be stretched to their
limit and will not be available to help all properties.
• Ensure that your survival is the primary consideration in (
any decision.
• The safest option is for you and your family to leave early, hours
or the day before a fire occurs.
• Under no circumstances will it be safe to Stay and Defend.
• Ensure you stay well informed of current fire activity by
monitoring local media and regularly checking for updates on -
the RFS website or Information Line.
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• Fires will likely be uncontrollable,
unpredictable and fast moving with
flames in the tree tops, and higher
than roof tops.
• Thousands of embers will be blown
around and into homes causing other
fires to start and spread quickly up to
6km ahead of the main fire.
• Fire can threaten suddenly, without warning and it will be very hot and
windy making it difficult to see, hear and breathe as the fire approaches.
• There is a likelihood that people in the path of the fire will die, or be injured
and many homes and businesses destroyed or damaged.
• Only very well prepared, constructed and actively defended homes are
likely to offer any degree of safety.
• Power, water and phone networks are likely to fail as strong winds will bring
down trees, power lines and blow roofs off buildings well ahead of the fire.
• In the event of a fire, firefighting resources will be stretched and are highly
unlikely to be available to help all properties.
• Ensure that your survival is the primary consideration in any decision
• Leaving early (hours before) will always be the safest option for you
and your family.
• If your Bush Fire Survival Plan includes the decision to Stay and LU
Defend, only do so if your home is well prepared, specifically
designed and constructed for bush fire and you are currently capabln
of actively defending it.
• Stay well informed of current fire activity by monitoring local media
and regularly checking for updates on the RFS website or Information
Line.
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• Fires will likely be uncontrollable and
fast moving with flames that may be
higher than roof tops.
• Expect embers to be blown around
and into homes causing other fires to
start and spread up to 4km ahead of
the main fire.
• Fire can threaten suddenly, without warning and be very hot and windy
which will make it increasingly difficult to see, hear and breathe as the
fire approaches.
• There is a chance lives may to be lost and people injured and expect that
some homes and businesses will be destroyed or damaged.
• Well prepared, constructed and actively defended homes are likely to offer
safety during a fire.
• Power, water and phone networks may fail.
• In the event of a fire, firefighting resources are unlikely to be available to
help all properties.
• Ensure that your survival is the primary consideration in any decision.
• Leaving early (hours before) is the safest option for you and your
family.
• Follow your Bush Fire Survival Plan.
• If your Bush Fire Survival Plan includes the decision to Stay and
Defend, only do so if your home is well prepared, and you are
currently capable of actively defending it.
• Stay informed of current fire activit y by monitorina local media and
regularly checking for updates on the RFS website or Information
Line.
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• Fires can be difficult to control and
present a very real threat.
• Embers may be blown around homes
causing otliei flies to occui up to 2kiii
ahead of the main fire.
• Fire can threaten suddenly, without warning and it may be hot and windy
and it may become difficult to see, hear and breathe as the fire approaches.
• Loss of life or injury is unlikely though some homes and businesses may be
damaged or destroyed.
• Well prepared homes that are actively defended can offer safety during
a fire.
• Power, water and phone networks may fail.
• In the event of a fire, firefighting resources may not be available to help
all properties.
• Fires can be controlled but still present • Fire may threaten suddenly and without warning.
- a threat. • Loss of life is highly unlikely and damage to homes and businesses limited
Embers may be blown ahead of the • Well prepared homes that are actively defended can offer safety during
fire and around homes causing other a fire.
- fires to occur close to the main fire.
• Ensure that your survival is the primary consideration in any decision.
• Be prepared to implement your Bush Fire Survival Plan.
• Stay informed of current fire activity by monitoring local media and
regularly checking for updates on the RFS website or Information
Line.
• Ensure your family, home and property is well prepared for the risk
of bush fire.
• Review and practice your Bush Fire Survival Plan.
• Monitor local media for fire activity and regularly check the RFS
website or Information Line.
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• Fires can be easily controlled but can
still present a threat.
• Little or no risk to life or homes
• Ensure your family, home and property is well prepared for the risk
of bush fire.
• Review and practise your Bush Fire Survival Plan.
• Refer to the RFS website or Information Line for changes in
fire activity.
Bureau of Meteorology www.bom.gov.au
NSW Rural Fire Service www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

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ACT. You need to act decisively in accordance with your Bush Fire
Survival Plan when bush fires threaten.
Fires can threaten suddenly and without warning so you must be prepared to act without
receiving any emergency warning.
PREPARE. It is your responsibility to prepare yourself, your
family and your home for the threat of bush fire.
One of the most important decisions you need to make to protect you and your family is
will you "Leave Early or Stay and Defend a well prepared property. Regardless of your
decision preparation is the key to survival.
What will you do to be safe?
• If you are going to leave - prepare for where you are going to go, how you are
going to get there and what you are going to take.
• If you are going to stay, you must have a plan for how you are going to survive and
where you will shelter. Know what equipment you need.
• Have a contingency plan in case things don't go according to plan.
Bush fires can impact the health, safety and welfare of you and your family. Being
involved in a fire will be one of the most traumatic experiences of your life.
• You need to be both mentally and physically prepared to carry out your survival plan.
• Include the whole family in creating your Bush Fire Survival Plan.
• Prepare your Bush Fire Survival Kit.
There are a number of measures you can take to prepare you home and property for
bush fire. Start by identifying the potential fire risks around your home.
• Use the diagram overleaf as a guide to preparing your home.
• On days of CATASTROPHIC fire danger rating the safest option is for you and your
family to leave early, hours or the day before a fire occurs. Even well prepared and
constructed homes will not be safe.
• On days of EXTREME fire danger leaving early will always be the safest option for you
and your family. Staying and Defending should only be considered if your home is well
prepared, specifically designed and constructed for bush fire and you are currently
capable of actively defending it.
The RFS Bush Fire Household Assessment Tool will help you make an
informed decision and is available at
www.rfs.nsw.gov.au
• Know what the fire danger rating is for your area.
• Watch for signs of fire, especially smoke and flames.
• If you receive a Bush Fire Alert, take it seriously and act promptly.
• Look and listen for information on TV, radio, the internet, mobile phones and
through speaking with neighbours.
• Don't "wait and see". Leaving late is the most dangerous option.
• Only consider staying and defending if you and your property are currently well
prepared.
SURVIVE. Your survival depends on your preparations, and the
- decisions you make. - -
- -
• Your life and your family's lives are always your first priority during bush fires.
The safest option is always to be away from the fire, but that may not always be
possible so regardless of your plan to leave early or stay and defend a well prepared
property, you must have a contingency plan.
• Identify your nearest Neighbourhood Safer Place or other locations that may
provide you with greater protection.
PREPARE. ACT. SURVIVE.

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Check the condition of external walls
and cladding and seal any gaps
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Cut back any overhanging
trees or shrubs and dispose
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Plant trees and shrubs that are less likely to
ignite due to their low oil content
Prepare your
Bush Fire
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=- Check the condition of your roof and replace
any damaged or missing tiles
/ Clean leaves from the roof, gutters and
downpipes and fit quality metal leaf guards
/ Install metal flywire or solid screens to the
outside windows and doors
Make sure the pressure
relief valves on LPG
cylinders face outwards
(so flame is not directed
toward the house)
Have a non-combustible doormat
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Keep garden mulch
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INSURANCE
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Maintain adequate levels of i I
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Remove and store any
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Enclose underfloor areas
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Store wood piles well away from
the house and keep covered
generated by a bush fire

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PREPARE. ACT. SURVIVE.

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The safety of you and your family always comes first. This Bush Fire Survival Plan will provide you with the information
you need to survive a bush fire.
PREPARE. ACT. SURVIVE.
It is your responsibility to prepare yourself, your
family and your home for the threat of bush fire.
You need to make the decision to either Leave
Early or Stay and Defend. Regardless of your
decision you must prepare your property to give
you, your family and your home the best chance
of survival.
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The south east region of Australia remains one of
the most bush tire prone areas on earth
In the last thirty years alone over 300 people
have lost their lives to bush tire and some 7.500
homes and buildings have been destroyed
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The increased frequency of extreme bush fires in the last 10 years,
and the recent experience of the Black Saturday fires in Victoria, have
encouraged fire services throughout Australia to introduce new levels
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leaving early is the safest option to ensure your survival You must
leave early to a safer location, hours or the day befc' re a fire occurs.
Under no circumstances will it be sate to Stay and Defend.
The next highest level is EXTREME Should a tire occur in your area
on a day of Extreme FDR leaving early will always be the safest option
Staying and defending can only be considered for homes that:
• have been designed and constructed specdrcahy to address the
threat of bush fire
• have been maintained to those levels
• ar cu rrently well prepared and
• can be actively defended by people with the skills, knowledge and
confidence to ima!ernent a welt-rehearsed plan
On days of CATASTROPHIC or EXTREME FOR:
• Fires will likely be uncontrollable, unpredictable and very fast
moving with highly aggressive flames extending high above tree
tops and buildings.
• Thousands of embers will be violently blown into and around
homes causing other fires to start rapidly and spread quickly up to
20km ahead of the main tire.
• Fire can threaten suddenly, without warning and be incredibly hot
and windy making it difficult to see, hear and breathe as the fire
approaches.
• People in the path of the fire will almost certainly die, or be injured
arid significant numbers of homes and businesses destroyed or
damaged.
• Even well prepared and constructed homes will not be safe.
• Expect power, water and phone networks to fail as severe winds
Dung down trees, power lines and blow roofs oft buildings well
ahead of the re.

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It you live in or near the bush, it is your responsibility to prepare
yourself, your family, and your home to survive a bush fire, Prepare
your home and consider forming a Community FireWise Group with
your neighbours or joining a Community Fire Unit. There is a wide
range of planning and preparation activities that you can undertake
which will dramatically increase the chances of you, your family, and
your home surviving a bush fire.
The first step in planning to survive a bush fire is to understand your
own level of risk. The NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) has created the
Bush Fire Household Assessment Tool to help you calculate your
risk based on your particular circumstances, and it is available at
w.rIs.nsw.gov.au . By understanding your own level of risk you will
be able to make informed decisions that are right for you and your
family. One of the most important decisions you need to make is
whether you will Leave Early or Stay and Defend a well prepared
property This decision is the basis of your Bush Fire Survival
Plan.
It you have aireauy decided to Leave Early or the Bush Fire
Household Assessment Tool has advised you to do so, turn
to page 4 and carefully read the Leave Early information before
completing your Bush Fire Survival Plan
The following questions may help you make the right decision for you
and your family.
• Is your home adequately constructed, maintained and prepared
to withstand the impact of a fire, or in other words, is your home
defendable?
• Do you need to consider family members who are young, elderly
or infirm?
• Are you able to maintain the necessary bush fire preparations for
yourself and your property?
• Are you physically and emotionally prepared to actively defend
your property?
• What will you do if a rapid onset fire leaves you with no time to
leave. Where will you shelter and how will you get there?
• Do you have the knowledge, skills, confidence and equipment to
Stay and Defend your property?
It you are going to Leave Early prepare for where you are going to
go, how you are going to gel there and what you are going to take.
If you are going 10 Stay and Defend you must have a plan for how
you are going to survive and where you will shelter.
In either case have a contingency plan in case things don't go the way
you expect.
Once you have completed your Bush Fire Survival Plan practise it
regularly to ensure everyone involved knows exactly what to do in the
event of a fire.
Preparation is the key to survival.
Being involved in a tire will be one of the most traumatic experiences
of your life, Bush fires can impact the health, safety and welfare of you
and your family.
• You need to be both mentally and physically prepared to carry out
Your Bush Fire Survival Plan.
• Include the whole family in creating your Bush Fire Survival
Plan
• Prepare your Bush Fire Survival Kit.
• Prepare your Bush Fire Relocation Kit,
There are a number of measures you can take to prepare your home
and property for bush fire. Once your property has been properly
prepared a regular maintenance routine will greatly reduce the work
required.
Your maintenance routine should include:
• Mowing your grass regularly
• Removing excess ground fuels and combustible material
(long dry grass, dead leaves and branches)
• Clearing leaves, twigs, bark and other debris from the roof
and gutters
• Trimming low lying branches 2 metres from the ground
surrounding your home
You should also:
• Enclose open areas under your decks and floors
• Install fine steel wire mesh screens on all windows, doors, vents
and weep holes
• Relocate flammable items away from your home including
woodpiles, paper, boxes, crates, hanging baskets and garden
furniture
• Seal all gaps in external roof and wall cladding
Regardless of your decision, an unprepared property is not only at risk
itself, but may also present an increased danger for your neighbours
and their homes. Firefighters will carefully assess the risk before
deciding if they are able to defend unprepared properties.
Know the Fire Danger Rating br any given day. You and your
family should be aware of the actions you will take at the various
Fire Danger Rating levels and it is important to ensure this is
incorporated into your Bush Fire Survival Plan

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In the event of a bush lire you need to act decisively in accordance
with your Bush Fire Survival Plan. To protect yourself from injury
or death, do not adopt the wait arid see' option. Fires can threaten
suddenly and without warning, so you must be prepared to act
decisively rather than wait for a warning that may not come.
• Always be aware of the current fire danger rating in your area
• Act decisively the moment you know Mere is danger.
• Put your plan into action: do not wait and see'.
• Be alert for signs of fire, particularly the smell of smoke or the
sight of flames.
• Look and listen for information on radio, television, the internet,
mobile phones and by speaking to people in your community.
This section takes you step-by-step through each option - Leave
Early or Stay and Defend. Use it to complete your personalised
Bush Fire Survival Plan lilt-out start ng on page 1.
Thinking 1 will Leave Early" is not enough. You must
PREPARE to ACT and SURVIVE.
If you plan to Leave Early, then you nust leave your home well
before a bush fire threatens and travelling by road becomes hazardous
Please remember that leaving late is a deadly option.
Step 1: Preparation
Your property should he well preparea for bush fire even if you intend
to Leave Early. The better prepared your home, the more likely it will
survive a bush fire, regardless of whether residents or firefighters are
present to protect it.
Step 2: Bush Fire Survival Plan
Step 3: Travelling in your vehicle near a bush tire
Shehering inside a vehicle is a high risk strategy that can result in
death. Whilst sheltering inside a vehicle offers you a slightly higher
chance of survival than being caught in the open, having a Leave
Early or Stay and Defend strategy is a much safer option
You sriould never take a jomriey into areas where the fire danger is
Catastrophic or Extreme. You should consider postponing or finding
alternative routes if necessary. If you can smell or see smoke in the
distance it is best to u-turn and drive away from the danger.
If you are confronted with smoke or flames while on the road STOP
as soon as it is safe to do so and immediately turn on the vehicles
headlights and hazard warning lights. If you do need to shelter in
your vehicle drive your car into a bare, clear area well away from
surrounding trees, leaving your headlights and hazard lights on. Turn
off the ignition, close all windows and vents then cover yourself with
woollen or cotton blankets to protect from radiant heat and take shelter
below the window level. Drink water frequently and stay in the vehicle
until the fire front has passed. Once the fire front has passed exit the
vehicle to inspect the damage and ensure other passengers are sate.
Step 4: Contingency Plan
Even though your choice is to Leave Early well before a oush fire
rhreateris, YOU should still have a contingency plan as part of your
Bush Fire Survival Plan There are many scenarios to consider,
such as what you will do ifa rapid onset fire starts in your local area
making roads unpassabie or travel particularly dangerous. You should
have other options if road travel is not safe.
• Is your house well prepared? It can provide you with protection
from radiant heat and is far safer than being out in the open or in a
vehicle
• Have you identified a safer location to be such as a neighbour's
home or a Neighbourhood Safer Place?
In making the decision to Leave Early here area row 1h i ngs YOU
need to consider.
• When will you leave - have you decided what will be your trigger
for action? (for example forecast conditions)
• Will your plan be different for weekdays, weekends or if someone
is at home sick or injured?
• Are all members of your household going to Leave Early?
• Where will you and your family go to ensure you are all safe?
• What route will you take to get :here?
• What will you take in your Relccation Kit when you Leave Early?
• What will you do if there are multiple CATASTROPHIC or EXTREME
fire danger days in one week?
• Do your friends, family and neighbours know the details of your
plan?
• What will you do with your pets?
• Do you have a contingency plan i n the event if is unsafe to leave?
AGUIdtO1EAVEEARLr

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You can not just Stay and Defend without careful planning
and preparation. You must PREPARE to ACT and SURVIVE.
Step 1: Preparation
PIairiinq is absolutely critical to successfully Stay and Defend.
Staying to actively defend your house involves the risk of
psychological trauma, injury and death. Your property must be well
prepared as the better prepared your home, the more likely it will
survive a bush fire. Well prepared properties that are actively defended
can provide a safe refuge for you and your family to shelter from
radiant heat and ember attack.
Step 2: Bush Fire Survival Plan
In making the decision to Stay and Defend, here are a few things
you need to consider
• Is your property defendable?
• Are you physically and emotionally prepared to actively defend
your property?
• Do you have well maintained resources and equipment and do you
know how to use them?
• Do you have appropriate protective clothing?
• Will your Bush Fire Survival Plan need to be different for
weekdays, weekends or if someone is home sick?
• Do you have a contingency plan?
AGwe b $TAY AND DEFEND'ol
Step 3: Things you will need to do if you choose to
Stay and Defend
• Locate your Bush Fire Survival Kit
• Tune your radio to a local station and have a battery back up
• Ensure there is enough drinking water as it will be extremely hot
• Secure livestock and pets in well cleared areas with sufficient
drinking water
• Prepare water buckets, a torch and ladder ready to check the
ceiling space
As he fire approaches
• Remove flammable items from the exterior of your house (e.g.
blinds, outdoor furniture, door mats etc)
• Block down pipes and fill gutters with water
• Shut all windows and doors and place wet blankets and towels
around windows and door edges
• Prepare inside your house (e.g. remove curtains, move furniture
away from windows, close doors & windows)
• Patrol the inside of your home as well as the outside for embers
or small fires that may start
• Wet vegetation near your house with a hose or sprinkler
As the lire trout arrives:
• Take all firefighting equipment inside such as hoses and pumps as
they may melt during the fire
• Patrol the inside of your home, including the ceiling space, for
embers or small fires that may start
Alter the fire front has passed:
• Go outside and extinguish small spot fires and burning embers
• Patrol your property inside and out, including the ceiling space,
and extinguish any fires
• Stay at your property until the surrounding area is clear of fire
Step 4: Contingency Plan
Even fhougti your choice is to stay and actively defend. you must
still have a contingency plan as a part of your Bush Fire Survival
Plan A change in household circumstances, someone home alone
or unexpected visitors, Fire Danger Rating of Catastrophic or Extreme
and the current preparedness of your home are all reasons that may
require you to reconsider your Bush Fire Survival Plan. You should
identity a safer location (i.e. a neighbour's home), a Neighbourhood
Safer Place and consider it you should Leave Early well before
bush tire threatens.
5

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During a bush fire your survival and safety depends on your
preparations, and the decisions you make.
Your main priority is to ensure that you and your family are sate, The
lives of you and your family are more important than any building.
Preparation is the key to surviving a busi fire so whatever happens:
• Make a Bush Fire Survival Plan and stick to it
• Don't wait and see, act decisively
• Always be aware of the Fire Danger Rating (FDR)
• Seek out information, do not assume you will receive a warning
The safest option is always to be away from the fire, but that may not
always be possible so regardless of your plan to Leave Early or Stay
and Defend a well prepared property, you must have a contingency
plan. Know the location of your nearest Neighbourhood Safer
Place and other locations that may provide you with a greater level
of protection.
A Neighbourhood Safer Place (NSP) is a place at last resort for
people during a bush tire. It can be pat of your contingency plan, for a
time when your Bush Fire Survival Plan cannot be implemented or
has failed.
An NSP is an identified building or space within the community
that can provide a higher level of protection from the immediate life
threatening effects of a bush fire. NSP's still entail some risk, both n
moving to them and while sheltering in them and cannot be considered
completely safe. They are a place of last resort in emergencies only.
The following limitations of NSP need to be considered within your
Bush Fire Survival Plan:
• NSP do not cater for pets
• When using NSP do not always expect emergency services to
be present
• NSP do not provide meals, amenity or cater for special needs
(eq for infants, the elderly, the ill or disabled)
• They may not provide shelter from the elements, particularly
flying embers
If an NSP is part of your contingency plan it should not require
extended travel through fire affected areas to get there. If there is not
sufficient time or it is unsafe to travel to an NSP you should then
consider other pre identified safer locations such as your neighbours'
home or a wide open space.
If you receive an emergency warning about a bush fre or other
emergency, take notice - it could save your life.
Fires can threaten suddenly and without warning making it impossible
to get messages out in time. For this reason it is important that your
Bush Fire Survival Plan does not rely solely on receiving an alert.
You should always be aware of what is happening and be prepared to
act regardless of whether you receive an official emergency warning.
Fire agencies provide as much information as is possible through a
wide range of mechanisms.
There are three types of alert messages to help you make the right
safety choices:
Bush fire Advice message - a fire has started - general information
Io keep you o cafe
Bush fire Watch and Act message - represents a heightened level
of threat. Conditions are changing, a fire is approaching; lives may
come under threat Take appropriate action.
Bush fire Emergency Warning - is the highest level message
advising of impending danger. It may be preceded with the Standard
Emergency Warning Signal (SEWS). An Emergency Warning means
there is a threat to lives and protective action is required immediately.
The FOR is an early indicator ci POt' ritidi ua:'ger and 5OUiO act as
your first trigger for action. The higher the rating, the greater the need
for you to ACT. The Fire Danger Rating (FOR) is an assessment of the
potential fire behaviour, the difficulty of suppressing a fire, and the
potential impact on the community should a bush fire occur on a given
day. An FDI of 1 (LOW-MODERATE) means that fire will not burn, or
will burn so slowly that it will be easily controlled, whereas an FDI in
excess of 100 (CATASTROPHIC) means that fire will burn so fast and
so hot that it will be uncontrollable.
EXTREME: FDI 75 —99
SEVERE: FDI5O-74
VERY HIGH: FIJI 25 —49
i he safest option. IS for you and your fam ii cave eaOy h ou's or the day hekf e a firo oncurs Even well
repared arid constructed homes will riot be sate.
leaving early (hours before) will always be the safest option for you and your family. Staying and Defending
.hould only be considered if your home is well prepared, specifically designed and constructed for bush fire
nd you are currently capable of actively defending it.
Leaving early will always be the safest option for you and your family, Staying and Defending is only an option
your home is well prepared, and you are currently capable of activel y delendina it.
Be prepared to implement your Bush Fire Survival Plan and keep informed of current lire activity by
monitoring local media and regularly checking for updates on the RFS website or Information Line.
HIGH: Fm 12 - 24 - - risure that you, your family, your home and property is well prepared for the risk of bush fire.
LOW-MODERATE: FOl 0— 1 "eview and rehearse your Bush Fire Survival Plan - -

YOUR BUSH FIRE SURVIVAL PLAN
Complete your personalised Bush Fire Survival Plan lift-out.
Personal Details
Important phone numbers: 000 (Fire, Police & Ambulance)
Family: Family: Family'
Work: Friends:— Friends:
Sclionh
Important contact details - name and phone number:
Insurer Policy Number: - -
Electricity:
Water:
Gas: -
Phone Company:
Council.
Ph
Phone:
Phone:
Phone
- Phone;
Phone
Leave Early
For those who have decided to Leave Early list their names and contact phone numbers then complete Section 1
-
Phone number:
Stay and Defend
For those who have decided to Stay and Defend list their names and contact phone numbers then complete Section 2
Names:
Phone number:
11L
000
-0 0
f/I

For more information see "A Guide To Leave Early" at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au
LEAVE EARLY — SECTION 1
Leaving Early will always be the safest option for you and your family. It is extremely important for
you to prepare a detailed Leave Early plan to ensure everyone understands what to do and when.
Use the boxes below to list tasks to do.
When to go -- Thnk n JffenI In s dial andyctr tarn I v to Leave Early
Remember to put on Personal Protective Clothing before you leave home. See page
Where to go - ;Irnttv rP rc tr Ir-ia t i n n dnnt hrnV o in ravi far to be safe
How to get there - What roads will you take to your destination and have an alternate route. See Map page 12
What to take - Make a list of your most valuable items (e.g. Insurance papers, computer, photo albums, passports, birth certificates
and other important documents) See Relocation Kit on page 13,
8
EVERYONE MUST HAVE A CONTINGENCY PLAN
On CATASTROPHIC days the safest option is for On EXTREME days Leave Early (hours before)
you and your family 10 Leave Early, hours or will always be the safest cpdon for you and
the day before a fire occurs. Even well prepared your family. Stay and Defend should only
and constructed homes will not be safe. Fires be considered if your home is well prepared,
will likely be uncontrollable, unpredictable and specifically designed and constructed for bush
very fast moving with highly aggressive flames fire and you are currently capable of actively
extending high above tree lops and buildings. defending it. Fires will likely be uncontrollable,
unpredictable and fast moving with flames in the
tree tops, and higher than roof tops.

For more information see "A Guide To Stay and Defend" at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au
STAY AND DEFEND — SECTION 2
Anyone who is NOT going to Leave Early MUST be involved in completing this Stay and Defend
plan to ensure they know what to do. Every Stay and Defend plan will be different depending on
your circumstances. Use the boxes below to list tasks to do.
Before the fire approaches Stiri gening yuursd and your property ready tot a bush lire.
As the fire approaches Pare for ernL'n .rhe.. . -" fl
As the lire front arrives - Stay sate by monitoring the tire from inside your home
After the fire has passed - Patrol your property and extinguish any spot hies or bLrIhnq noer
no Tray noed to keep this up for several hours.
EVERYONE MUST HAVE A CONTINGENCY PLAN
Contingency Plan - what will you do if you cant activate your plan? Remember that leaving late can lead to loss of lives.
Know where your neaiest Neighbourhood Safer Place Identity other safer locations which could include a
is and how to get there. neighbour or friend house, sporting field or recreation
oval close to your home that will otter you a better level of
- - protection.

ACTIVATING YOUR
BUSH FIRE SURVIVAL PLAN
Once you have prepared your Bush Fire Survival Plan arid completed your preparations, it is absoutely essential
that you regularly practise and review your plan. This will make sure you and your family are well organised in the
event of a bush fire. If a bush fire threatens the health and safety of you, your family, home or property. you should
follow these steps:
Someone must take charge and lead other family members through this
emotional experience by carefully communicating the various tasks set
out ii the plan. Know who is going to Leave Early and who is going
to Stay and Defend.
Every member of the family must change into their Personal Protccv
Clothing, including long pants, long sleeve shirt and closed in shoes.
(See page 11).
If your plan is to Leave Early, pacK all valuables in
your vehicle (See Relocation Kit page 13) and relocate
OR - If your plan is to Stay and Defend, ensure you have
to your designated safer location. Give yourself enough all the items in the Bush Fire Survival Kit ready to go
time to get you and your family to safety. Don't return (See page 14). This can be a dangerous option and
home until it is safe to do so. you should be physically and mentally prepared.
Listen to the radio, television. firefighters and/or police for information
on the fire in your local area. Bush fire is dynamic and unpredictable
so you need to be prepared for the unexpected. Warnings are not
guaranteed so do whatever is necessary to ensure you remain safe.
10

I
40,
Loll - , . m il -
I I•'
I , I
wide-brimmed hat
work gloves
smoke mask or wet cloth
long-sleeved shirt
In the event of fire everyone involved should wear:
heavy cotton
• Natural fabrics i e cotton denim or wool Synthetic fabrics can
melt or burn.
A long-sleeved shirt made from thick cotton or wool is ideal to
prevent burns to the upper body and arms (e.g. flannelette or
cotton drill work shirt).
• A pair of heavy cotton pants will shield your legs from the radiant
heat emitted from the fire. For example denim jeans, oil-free drill
pants or cotton overalls.
• Sturdy leather work boots along with a pair of woollen socks
prevent burns to the feet.
• A wide-brimmed hat can stop embers from dropping onto your
head or down the back of your shirt.
• Work gloves to protect your hands.
A good pair of goggles will safeguard your eyes against any
smoke, embers and debris that may be in the air.
• A smoke mask or wet cloth (non-synthetic) to cover your nose and
mouth to protect you from inhaling smoke and embers.
leather work boots
11

Use this map as a guide of what you should look for in your area
What is your relocation route? • Do you have an alternative route?
Is it safe?
Friends, family, safer locations
Where is your Neighbourhood
Safer Place?
Where are other safer locations? •
(e.g. schools, golf course, oval,
clear open areas away from fire)
relocation route -
Safer location 2 -
I
- .. ..
H HI! \I \
T-1
• Safer location
i
aitt:-rnl,r' nit;
Parkianij ,
P j,j
J
:
II I II I I I I \ I / 1
4
rile front approaching
'Leave early"
4
Disclaimer
Any representation, statement, opinion, or advice expressed or implied in this image is made in good faith on the basis that the State of New South Wales, the NSW Rural
Fcc Service, its agents and employees are not liable (whether by reason of negligence, lack of care or otherwise) to any person for any damage or toss whatsoever which
12 has occurred or may occur in relation to that person taking or not taking as the case may be) action in respect of any representation, statement or advice referred to above

I
1ip
El Battery operated radio and spare batteries
Write a list of all items your family will need before, during and after your relocation.
The list below shows items that you might like to put in your relocation kit.
El Protective clothncj for the whole family
El Eye glasses
El Mobile phone and battery charger
"7 F__
4
4e :
MeJc.tEuri
a Wallet/purse and money
anNAW
Clothing (2 sets of clothes for each family member)
El Identity information (passports, birth certificates)
T'
/-,
El Bottled water (enough for each
relocated family member)
El Family and friends phone numbers
El Items of high importance (e.g. family photos,
valuables, important documents)
El Blankets (natural fibres)
El Children's toys
A
13

B4I4tt$
•P!' j ''-
You should have a bush tire survival kit stored in an area
of the house that is sate to access.
The kit should contain:
it
O Protective clothing for the whole family (e.g. boots or sturdy footwear,
jeans, long sleeve shirt made from natural fibres or cotton drill overalls)
U Drinking water
U Woollen blankets
U Fire extinguishers
U First aid kit
-..4JeO%
U Hcses
Knapsack spray
U Shovel '\
\\
MW I
U Towels
U Medications
U Ladder
U Buckets
(LJ
U Goggles
U Gloves
U Battery operated radio
6
U Torch
U Spare batteries
L
U Mop
• .--//jI-,
14
U Smoke mask (Respirator mask)

MYTH
REALITY
,a fire truck-'a
Fire trucks and firefighters are a limited resource so It is important
they are deployed in an appropnate manner to best manage the fire
The larger a fire the more likely it is that you will not see a fire truck
before, during or after the bush fire.
daLwo
If your decision 1nyour Bush Fire Survival Plan is to Leave.Early,
then'you Should leave well before the fire front reaches:your
property. Irrespective of your local area knowledge you must stick to
your plan and Leave Early. Leaving late can be fatal.
rgency service wlfl knocI Emergency services personnel are not always available to alert the
to lee I community of potential nsks by door knocking and encouraging
-4' you to leave. You need to be ready to Leave Early if your life or the
people in your care are at risk
- more
_rff
lonly 'have to clean my
prepare my property for
I -
-. -• - IT t
Most houses lost in bush fires are lost as -a result of ember attack.
Under certain conditions embers can cause ignitions up to 20kms
in front of the main fire. A combination of your level of preparation
and your homes construction will determine thesurvivábility of your
home
Fire requires fuel, heat and oxygen to occur. This means that flames
or embers do not necessarily rely solely on your gutters and lawns
for fuel They might utiHse overhanging trees, woodpiles, old
building materials under the deck or chemicals in the garden shed
to sustain them Do yourself and your neighbours a favour by taking
the time to properly prepare your whole property, which includes
yourself, your house and your land.
DI 1 0

A FIRE SE INITIATIVE
NSWRFS INFORMATION LINE
1800 NSWRFS
1800 679737
www.rIs.nsw.gov.au
NSW
GOVERNMENT
www.fire.nsw.gov.au
www.rfs.nsw.gov.au
© State of New South Wales through the NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE 2009