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GENERAL SAFETY TIPS AND PRECAUTIONS IN WILDFIRE SITUATIONS.

Wildfires are fuelled by carbon (the dry tinder of forests, grasslands, woodlands), oxygen (which feeds the flame of the wildfire) and space (where the fire moves). The third source is very important to understand, as fires will move where possible, provided there's oxygen and carbon available. Space also allows for wildfires to be steered by weather, namely hot dry winds and higher burn-rate vegetation. Irrespective of the nature of a suburban setting, a major wildfire will decimate all in its path if pushed by strong wind. Therefore, individuals must follow safety guidelines to achieve maximum protection. Prevention (or hindrance to fire) is a great start and around the home, clearing, pruning and mowing of debris (dead leaves, bark, wood, grass) from gardens and rooves is paramount. Any community-based forest reserve edge clearing also creates fire-breaks, to allow for distance between fire and homes. A decent water supply (to keep lawns, rooves and walls damp) is helpful, and should be already stored. However, most important is personal safety and awareness. Always know where wildfire reports are coming from (a battery-powered radio is great for news bulletins), and always try to ascertain the movements of fire-fighting crews. They're the first to alert areas to any emergencies and their advice is more important than a neighbour's, or yours.

As fires are intensely hot, smoky, full of burning embers and can change direction suddenly, they can catch the unwary individual and ultimately consume them. Therefore, one must wear full-body clothing (overalls are good), and consider eye protection (airtight goggles preferred), head cover (hat, scarf, cap), gloves and sturdy footwear like boots. A covering for airways is also important - this may be a handkerchief tied around the face, a paper mask or a heavy-duty apparatus. Once protected, one can resist dangerous exposure and will be better able to save property and others. One useful tip - if caught by full force of blaze, immediately lie face-down and flat on ground and cover any exposed skin or head area. Breathe short, measured breaths and simply wait until it appears as though the blaze has moved overhead. One can obtain minimal oxygen at ground level, which is where the fires are fed from.

Finally, if you are in a situation where you're fighting fire as a community, you must be aware of the capabilities of your neighbours. If they succumb to fire exposure and are life-threatened, knowledge of CPR and first-aid is a massive bonus. Thus these are another set of pre-preparation safety skills to consider. It is also useful to carry a bag of first-aid treatments in this situation in case they area required. A mobile phone is another key consideration to alert outsiders to potential trappings.

Remember, best safety practice involves pre-preparedness and constant awareness of surroundings. The time to start safety guide preparation is early summer, before peak wildfire season arrives.

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