Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) says the recent heavy rain across the North Coast Region (NCR) has not washed out the possibility of a bushfire season.
Acting Assistant Commissioner for the NCR, Mark Stuart urged residents to prepare their properties as usual, as high vegetation growth had created bushfire hazards.
“We’ve had our fair share of wet weather over the past few months, but we don’t want residents to assume it means they won’t see fires this bushfire season,” Mr Stuart said.
“It may reduce the dryness of the soil in some locations, but it also prompts vegetation growth which increases fuel loads.”
He said during these cooler months, with less humid conditions, it did not take long for vegetation to dry out and become a risk.
Regional Manager of the Rural Fire Service (RFS), Peter Hollier said it was the perfect chance for residents to clear gutters, mow lawns and trim overhanging branches.
“There’s no doubt these small but important tasks go a long way in protecting your property,” Mr Hollier said.
“Regardless of whether you live on an urban or rural property, the onus is on you to mitigate bushfire risk. If you own the fuel, you own the fire.”
Mr Hollier said the RFS had been preparing for the bushfire season by conducting critical mitigation work across the region.
“NCR RFS brigades will continue assisting property owners with hazard reduction burns to reduce fuel loads,” he said.
“Residents can also conduct their own hazard reduction burns on their land, remembering if it’s greater than two metres by two metres they should contact their local fire warden for a Permit to Light Fire,” Mr Hollier said.
