By Dr Michelle Byrne – Mayor of the Hills Shire Council
Bushfire season is fast approaching, making it more crucial than ever to be aware of your risks and take proactive steps to safeguard your home and loved ones.
Semi-rural and rural suburbs such as Dural, Kenthurst, Glenhaven, and Annangrove are especially at risk. To help, Council has partnered with the NSW Rural Fire Service to deliver the Four Weeks to Fire Ready Challenge—a practical, step-by-step program that makes preparation easy and manageable.
Many Hills residents live close to bushland, making preparation not just advisable, but essential. Fires can spread rapidly, and even a few minutes of planning can make a significant difference.
By joining the challenge, you’ll receive weekly guides filled with clear, actionable tips to help you get bushfire ready. Each week focuses on a different aspect of preparedness, making the process straightforward and stress-free.
The Four Weeks to Fire Ready Challenge includes:
Week 1 (29th September – 5th October): Discuss your bushfire survival plan with your household and decide what you’ll do if a fire threatens your home.
Week 2 (6th – 12th October): Prepare your home and property to reduce bushfire risk and make it as safe as possible.
Week 3 (13th – 19th October): Learn about bushfire alert levels and understand what each level means for your safety.
Week 4 (20th – 26th October): Stay informed with up-to-date bushfire information and know where to find reliable updates.
Following these steps will boost your confidence and ensure you have the knowledge and tools to stay safe this fire season.
By completing the challenge, you will:
• Create a personalised Bush Fire Survival Plan
• Learn how to maintain a defensible space around your home
• Gain a clear understanding of Fire Danger Ratings
Sign up for the Four Weeks to Fire Ready Challenge today and take the first step toward a safer, more prepared community.
To sign up, visit Council’s website and search for ‘Bushfire Protection – Be Prepared’.
