With the heightened risk of bushfires predicted for Australia this summer, the Rural Fire Service (RFS) and Davey Water Products are urging Australians to prioritise bushfire preparedness.
This call to action comes in response to the Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Summer 2024, issued by the Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council (AFAC), which warns of increased fire danger in many parts of the country.
Davey, the manufacturer behind the iconic Firefighter pump range, has joined forces with emergency services to emphasise the critical role of preparation in ensuring safety during bushfire season.
Their equipment, utilised by the Australian Defence Force during the significant 2019-2020 bushfires, plays a key role in bushfire defence strategies, the company said in a news release.
According to Davey, even under moderate weather conditions, bushfires can ignite and escalate rapidly, especially in areas with dry vegetation.
The presence of strong winds or sudden changes in weather can exacerbate these risks, underscoring the importance of proactive measures.
Scott Campbell, president of the Rural Fire Service Association and a volunteer firefighter, stressed the need for a well-structured bushfire survival plan.
“Knowing when to stay and defend or leave early are decisions to be made before the fire front arrives,” Campbell stated.
“This plan includes your family members, animals and pets, escape routes and neighbourhood safer places.”
Central to any survival plan is the readiness of firefighting equipment. Campbell highlighted the importance of high-quality, well-maintained firefighting pumps, noting their potential to protect homes from ember attacks.
“The importance of having a good quality and well-maintained firefighting pump is that when it’s needed it works,” he said.
A common oversight for many homeowners is neglecting to service firefighting pumps ahead of the bushfire season.
The company stated that poor maintenance can lead to failures during emergencies, leaving properties vulnerable.
Regular checks help identify issues such as clogged filters, fuel problems, and worn components, ensuring the equipment functions effectively when it is needed most.
Davey has outlined essential steps for maintaining fire pumps to enhance their reliability.
These include keeping fuel fresh, conducting regular engine checks, and ensuring clean air access and unobstructed water flow.
Protecting the pump from radiant heat and maintaining optimal pressure and flow are also key measures to ensure effective operation during an emergency.
