A panel of local experts on bushfires and climate gathered at the Fire and the Forest forum at Glen Street Theatre on 10 October to advise the community on how best to prepare their homes for the 2023 bushfire season.
Member for Mackellar, Sophie Scamps, hosted the panel, which included Greg Mullins, former Fire and Rescue NSW commissioner, Simon Bradshaw, research director at the Climate Council, and Tim Buckley, climate and energy analyst.
Mr Mullins explained that after three wet summers, there is lots of fuel for fires on the Northern Beaches, and only 26 per cent of hazard reduction burns have been completed.
He advised the community to speak to their local fire people regarding their specific area, to clear anything flammable from around their houses, clear gutters twice a week, stuff downpipes with foam pouring water on top, and make sure hoses can reach around the house.
Mr Mullins also advised everyone to download the Fires Near Me app, watch for warnings, and be aware of the fire danger rating. On a catastrophic day, people should know what to do.
Dr Scamps also urged residents to prepare for the fire season.
“We are lucky to live in one of the most beautiful parts of the world, surrounded by national parks and beautiful bushland on the Northern Beaches. However, with that beauty comes risk,” she said.