How to Prepare for A Bushfire in Australia

How to Prepare for A Bushfire in Australia

Fire officials have cautioned residents of fire-prone regions to prepare in anticipation of an increased fire hazard, given that Australia is approaching its first dry summer in three years. Preparing is essential when protecting your family and property from bushfires in Australia. Additionally, preparations commence with the design of your garden, which is situated beyond your residence. Reduce the amount of vegetation surrounding your home, sheds, and garages so that there is a clear space between them and any shrubbery or trees. 

how to prepare a bushfire in australia

Depending on the fire's stage, you and your property are susceptible to various dangers during a blaze. This page will provide information on how to prepare for a bushfire in Australia and the following steps during or after the bushfire. In addition, Jackery Solar Generators is a rechargeable power station and solar panel combination that can provide consistent and dependable backup power for your residence in the event of a bushfire. 

Key Takeaways:

  • A bushfire is a fire that consumes substantial portions of bushland. 

  • When preparing for bushfire in Australia, you should know fire danger ratings first, then make a bushfire survival plan, pack the bushfire emergency kit, prepare your home, yourself & family, and stay connected at last.

  • We highly recommend Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus, 2000 Pro and 1000 Pro to provide a consistent and stable power supply for your home or essential electronics during a bushfire in Australia.

  • During a bushfire, it is suggested to set up your clothing system to protect from fire, then from dehydration, fire smoke, and injuries, and take correct actions on the road.

  • You must check your well-being, the wastewater system, and food safety after the bushfire. 


What Is A Bushfire in Australia? 

The Australian bushfires of 2019-20 were of catastrophic magnitude and consequence, affecting both the environment and human life. Nineteen million hectares were consumed in flames, of which 12.6 million were forest and woodland areas. Approximately three billion animals were killed by the fires.

Unparalleled in its biodiversity, Australia harbors species that are absent elsewhere globally. However, over 1,700 plant, animal, and ecological community species are now classified as threatened. There are approximately 500 species of fauna present. During the summer of 2019-20, bushfires exacerbated the situation.

A bushfire is a fire that consumes substantial portions of bushland. They constitute a specific category of wildfires, which consume unmanaged vegetation such as savannahs, scrublands, grasslands, and woodlands. These disasters are difficult to contain and unpredictable.

There are numerous potential causes of bushfires. They may begin naturally when desiccated vegetation and trees, such as the golden wattle tree, are ignited by lightning. However, they can also be caused by humans, such as when a campfire is not adequately extinguished. Unfortunately, intentional fires do occur on occasion.

While climate change does not initiate bushfires, it does contribute to their intensification and enlargement. This is because our planet is warming and experiencing more intense droughts, dehydrating the vegetation that feeds the fires. An essential component is a flame.

When Is Bushfire Season in Australia?

The potential fire behavior determined by meteorological conditions, fuel loads, and topography constitutes a bushfire hazard. Fuel load is the gradual accumulation of living or deceased vegetation in an area. For instance, as dead leaves and twigs descend from trees, they may accumulate.

  • Depending on the state of local bushland, long-term climate conditions, and short-term weather events, these times may differ yearly.

  • In Queensland, the fire season typically commences in July and continues until October, with potential extensions into February. However, bushfires are a possibility at any time in Queensland. 

  • The consequences of climate change are providing the state with an increased risk of wildfires and prolonged fire seasons characterized by higher temperatures and more frequent scorching days.


How Do You Prepare for A Bushfire in Australia? 

Defense of a residence is facilitated by its readiness, which diminishes the danger to neighboring properties. Not only is an unprepared living vulnerable in and of itself, but it may also pose an elevated risk for nearby residents. To prepare your residence for the onset of bushfire season, consult the subsequent lists. An unprepared property is vulnerable in and of itself and may pose an elevated risk to its neighboring properties. The following are some suggestions for preparing for Australian bushfires:

prepare for bushfire in australia

Step 1: Know Fire Danger Ratings

The Fire Danger Rating is a scale that indicates the degree of peril and unpredictability associated with the ignition of a fire. On September 1, 2022, fire hazard ratings were modified throughout Australia.

Information contained in Fire Danger Ratings enables individuals to safeguard themselves and others. Conditions become more perilous, and the consequences of a fire become more severe as the fire hazard increases. The development of the new fire hazard rating system was informed by feedback from one of Australia's most extensive community surveys and improved technology and research.

The new Australian Fire Danger Rating system uses the Bureau of Meteorology meteorological data and additional environmental factors, including fuel burden. Fires of any rating can begin on any given day. Fires are more likely unpredictable and challenging for emergency services to contain on days with a higher danger rating.

fire danger ratings

Alert Levels indicate the degree of danger posed by a forest fire. Bear in mind: avoid waiting for a warning. Flames may begin and spread so rapidly that a notification may be unnecessary. A Bush Fire Alert should be regarded with seriousness. You or a member of your family may sustain bodily harm or fatality if you do not act. Bush Fire Alerts are classified into three tiers:

bush fire alerts

In case of some flames, you may receive an Emergency Alert text message, phone call, or radio or television message, such as a siren. Other fires might ignite with such velocity that no advance notice will be possible.

Step 2: Make A Bushfire Survival Plan

Can you recall a mental plan in an environment filled with smog, heat, and flames? When a conflagration threatens, it is too late to make a decision. Your level of preparedness and the choices you make will determine your safety and survival in the event of a conflagration; a written plan will alleviate stress, prevent disputes, and prevent delays. 

During a bushfire in Australia, your family's safety and survival will be contingent on your preparation level and choices. It would be best to consider who your bushfire survival plan will protect, including yourself, your children, your companion, and older people. Then, engage your households in conversation regarding the programs, including where you will be going, what you will bring, and other pertinent details.

Always consider early departure as the safer option. Survival planning is your responsibility. It is most prudent to evacuate the premises early in the morning or the night before a fire with an extreme or catastrophic danger rating to ensure survival. It is highly hazardous to seek refuge in an inadequate dwelling without an active defense system. 

Service disruptions, including those to power and water, are prevalent in the aftermath of bushfires. Anticipate disruptions to your mains water, NBN, electricity, telecommunications, and mobile phones. Elderly individuals, infants, or those with disabilities shouldn't remain in a bushfire-prone region amidst hazardous fire conditions or a bushfire.  

It could be too late to receive an official warning about a bushfire, so never delay obtaining one. You will not receive assistance or guidance on the appropriate evacuation time during a conflagration. You are required to adhere to your plan. 

Step 3: Pack The Bushfire Emergency Kit

Assemble an emergency survival kit before the onset of bushfire season. Possessing well-prepared equipment entails conveniently obtaining essential items that may prove indispensable in surviving a bushfire or natural catastrophe. It will be consolidated in a single, convenient location. This kit will assist you whether you intend to depart or remain and actively defend your property. 

Maintain your Bushfire Emergency Survival Kit in a watertight container that is easily accessible and that the entire family is aware of. This will facilitate its retrieval in a timely and effortless manner. Additionally, remember to prepare for your pets. Ensure that your companion is equipped with an identification tag. Take a leash, a basket, medication, food, and a familiar object with you when you depart with your pet. It will aid in tension reduction.

Bushfire Emergency Kit Checklist

Portable Radio

Waterproof Torch

Jackery Solar Generator

First Aid Kit

Portable Light

Woollen Blankets

Emergency Contract Number

Waterproof Bags

Cash

Credit Cards

Important Documents

Medications

Sanitary Supplies

Phone & Charger

Clothes

Drinking Water

Dried Food

Infant Supplies

Elder Supplies

Disabled Supplies

Pet Supplies

A bushfire survival kit provides convenient access to life-saving items during a bushfire. The equipment, consolidated in a single location, will help you save time whether you are preparing to depart or remain to defend.

Bushfires are best powered by solar energy. Portable solar generators generate electricity using the sun, an abundant, accessible, and renewable energy source, as opposed to generators powered by gasoline or diesel. Solar generators use the sun's energy to store pure energy for backup power or in an emergency.

The Jackery Solar Generator is an example of a noiseless, lightweight, and user-friendly generator. It features USB interfaces, AC outlets, and a 12V DC carport output, enabling the simultaneous charging of multiple devices. You will find additional information regarding Jackery Solar Generators in the subsequent section.

Step 4: Prepare Your Home

Bushfires in Australia involve more than fire as a single peril. At least 100 meters distant, radiant heat can be perceived and can cause damage or melting to objects such as automobiles and glass windows. Smaller spot fires may break out several kilometers away from the epicenter of a sizable bushfire due to the detonation of fire fragments.  

Home maintenance is the ideal starting point, and you can ensure that you are always bushfire-prepared by implementing some straightforward practices. An adequately equipped residence has a greater probability of enduring a forest fire. Even if you intend to depart early, your home has a greater chance of surviving a bushfire or incendiary attack if you make the necessary preparations. Additionally, an adequately prepared home may facilitate firefighter control, reduce the risk of endangering neighboring residences, and provide enhanced protection in an emergency where evacuation is not feasible.

Simple measures can be implemented in one's vicinity to fortify one's dwelling against a bushfire. While specific tasks are routine, others are exceptional; they all have the potential to safeguard oneself, one's family, and one's residence:

  • Trim shrubs and trees that overhang. This will prevent the fire from advancing toward your residence.

  • Mow the vegetation and extract any cuttings. A cleared area surrounding your residence will provide firefighters with a secure working environment.

  • Remove combustible materials from your residence. This includes doormats, timber piles, mulch, leaves, and outdoor furniture, among other items.

  • Remove all leaves and residue from the gutters encircling your residence. Home fires can be caused by particles that are on fire.

  • Construct one or more robust hoses with adequate reach to traverse the entirety of your residence. Ensure you possess a diesel or petrol pump and a dependable water source (pool, reservoir, dam).

Step 5: Prepare Yourself & Family

Having a bushfire survival plan and cleaning up around the home are just some aspects of preparation. Additionally, it is crucial to consider one's mental, physical, and emotional readiness. A bush fire is a highly frightful hazard. Vigorous flames, intense heat, and strong gusts of wind will rapidly exhaust you. Strict, heavy smoke that obstructs the airways and causes eye irritation. Observation and respiration will be hampered.

The approaching fire's booming sound could be extremely terrifying. Asember drops will fall, igniting spot fires in every direction. Water and electricity may be turned off. You may experience isolation, and the environment will be dimly lit, extremely boisterous, and physically and mentally taxing. Suppose one has any uncertainties regarding their capacity to endure. In that case, it is advisable to devise a strategy to evacuate early, well before a fire reaches their vicinity and before being threatened.

Individuals who are at greater risk, including those who are disabled, infants, elderly, or have medical conditions, should always depart early. Running away quickly is invariably the most prudent course of action.

Step 6: Stay Connected

Lastly, it is critical to remain informed and aware of where to find support before, during, and after emergencies to prepare and strategize. Additionally, it is essential to stay current, as fires are frequently unpredictable and subject to change; you must know what to do in the event of an increased fire hazard.  


Jackery Solar Generators for Bushfires in Australia

Solar generators, especially Jackery Solar Generators, are an increasingly popular option for portable power when preparing for bushfires in Australia, as they offer a clean and renewable energy source. Solar generators can power home appliances like lights, phone chargers, portable radios, and more.
The Jackery Solar Generator, which combines Jackery Solar Panels with a Portable Power Station, provides consistent and clean energy for fire emergencies. The Jackery Solar Panels, with over 25% power conversion rate, generate more electricity, and then the first-rate lithium-ion rechargeable power station can store energy effectively. The battery protection system and MPPT charge controller enable safety when using it to charge home appliances.
how jackery solar generator works
Jackery Solar Generators have capacities ranging from 240Wh to 12 kWh, and you can choose one according to your power needs. Here is a formula that you can use to calculate the working hours of appliances by using Jackery Solar Generators:

Working Hours (H) = [Jackery Solar Generator Capacity (Wh)*0.85] / Appliance's Wattage (W)

For example, you can use Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Pro (2160Wh) to charge a 100W portable radio for 17.3 hours (2160*0.85/100). This formula makes it easy to determine what appliances will keep working and which suits your emergence.


Jackery introduces the Solar Generator 2000 Plus, an industry-leading advancement in portable power solutions. Its enormous capacity and power output enable it to supply power for weeks to standard household appliances and to completely power homes. You can use it during or after a bushfire in Australia when your residence is without electricity. Up to 12 kWh of extended power and a 2 kWh large capacity elevate the emergency reserve power supply standard.

The ultra-long standby mode of the 2000 Plus can retain a fifty percent charge for up to two years. Using 6* SolarSaga 100W solar panels, the Solar Generator 2000 Plus can be fully charged in six hours. Charging is accomplished entirely autonomously using solar energy rather than the electrical grid. The industry's first add-on battery cell can be charged via solar panels, which increases portability, charging efficiency, and time savings. The Explorer 2000 Plus portable power station has a 10-year duration, and after 4,000 charge cycles, the battery will remain at 70% capacity.

Product

Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus 

Capacity

2042.8Wh (13A/638.4Ah)

Life Cycle

4000 cycles to 70%+ capacity

Battery Cell

LFP (LiFePO4 battery)

Dimension

37.36x35.94x47.3cm

Recharging Methods

Explorer 2000 Plus + 6*SolarSaga 100W: 6H; AC Adapter: 1.7H; 12V Car Adapter: 25H

Output Ports

2*AC Output: 230V~ 50Hz, 3000W Max, 6000W surge peak; 2*USB-A: Quick Charge 3.0, 18W Max; 2*USB-C: 100W Max, (5V, 9V, 15V, 12V, 20V up to 5A); 1*Carport: 12V⎓10A

jackery solar generator 2000 plus for bushfire
The Solar Generator 2000 Pro offers a big 2,160Wh charging capacity. It can be fully charged in less than 5.5 hours using 6*SolarSaga 100W solar panels and in less than 2 hours with an AC wall outlet. Superior BMS ensures dependability and safety. With the Solar Generator 2000 Pro, you may use free and unlimited solar energy to power most of your home appliances. The high-quality lithium battery contains four temperature core detectors and two chips for dual battery protection, ensuring a safe and dependable charging balance.

The Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro portable power station can survive up to ten years if used twice weekly. It has a standby capacity of 100% for over 365 days, making it an incredibly dependable power supply for home backup. The 19.5-kilogram power station incorporates a foldable handle for easy portability. When sunlight hits the SolarSaga 100W solar panels, they absorb it with a 24.3% conversion efficiency rate and store it in the Explorer 2000 Pro portable power station, which houses a lithium-ion battery, MPPT charge controller, and pure sine wave inverter, ensuring stable and consistent electricity flow. 

Product

Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Pro 

Capacity

2160Wh (43.2V/50Ah)

Life Cycle

1000 cycles to 80%+ capacity

Battery Cell

Lithium-ion battery

Dimension

30.75x26.9x38.4cm

Recharging Methods

Explorer 2000 Pro + 6*SolarSaga 100W: 5.5H; AC Adapter: 2H; 12V Car Adapter: 24H

Output Ports

2*AC Output: 230V, 2200W (peak 4400W); 2*USB-A: Quick Charge 3.0x2, 18W Max; 2*USB-C: 100W Max, (5V, 9V, 15V, 12V, 20V up to 5A); 1*Carport: 12V⎓10A

jackery solar genertor 2000 pro for bushfire
In addition to its 1000W output power, the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Pro offers a capacity of 1002Wh. An entire wall charge lasts 1.8 hours and can withstand 1000 charge cycles. By combining 2*SolarSaga 80W solar panels, the power generation efficiency can be raised by 25%. It is also a low-cost option for preparing for a bushfire.

The Explorer 1000 Pro portable power station has two 1000W AC output outlets, two USB A connectors, and one DC vehicle port. It can power up to 93% of your household equipment, such as an electric radio, refrigerator, phone, computer, and other electronics. The foldable handle simplifies transit and storage. Because of its lightweight design and 1,000-charge cycle life, this portable power source is excellent for home power backup. A pure sine wave inverter supplies consistent power to your electronics. 

Product

Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Pro 

Capacity

1002Wh (43.2V/23.2Ah)

Life Cycle

1000 cycles to 80%+ capacity

Battery Cell

NMC battery

Dimension

25.5x26.2x34cm

Recharging Methods

Explorer 1000 Pro + 2*SolarSaga 80W: 9H; AC Adapter: 1.8H; 12V Car Adapter: 12H

Output Ports

2*AC Output: 230V, 1000W (peak 2000W); 2*USB-A: Quick Charge 3.0x2, 18W Max; 2*USB-C: 100W Max, (5V, 9V, 15V, 12V, 20V up to 5A); 1*Carport: 12V⎓10A

jackery solar genertor 1000 pro for bushfire


What To Do During A Bushfire in Australia?

Typically, bushfires in Australia spread during sweltering days. You and your family might wear sandals, bare feet, swimwear, or slacks. Remember that the extent to which the epidermis is exposed to radiant heat amplifies its lethal consequences. Cover up as soon as you know that bushfires are approaching your area.
As the fire front progresses, the levels of radiant heat escalate significantly. For the duration of the primary fire, which could last for five to twenty minutes, your attire will prove inadequate in providing protection. Substantial objects hinder the transmission of radiant heat. It follows linear lines and a well-prepared residence offers excellent protection. Both houses and individuals defend one another.
what to do durig a bushfire

Step 1: Bushfire Clothing System

It can become scorching, and flames or embers may be in the air during a bushfire. It is, therefore, essential to utilize personal protective equipment. It is necessary to wear loose-fitting garments constructed from natural fibers, such as denim, hefty cotton drill, or pure wool, to prevent injury. Fabrics made of synthetic materials can dissolve or catch fire.  
There are several types of protective garments available for selection:
  • One can prevent embers from landing on the scalp or down the back of a shirt by donning a hat. 
  • Eye coverings protect against smoke, embers, and residue in the air.  
  • When safeguarding one's property, gloves can protect the palms against radiant heat, embers, and debris that may be present in the air or on objects picked up in the yard. 
  • Resilient leather footwear can prevent skin burns from embers and protect against radiant heat and residue.
  • Besides shielding against radiant heat and debris, long trousers can prevent embers from igniting your skin.
  • A mask that covers the nostrils and mouth may prevent the inhalation of embers, smoke, and ash.

Step 2: Protect From Dehydration

When the body loses more fluid than it obtains, dehydration ensues. Dehydration is hazardous due to the accumulation of ions and minerals in the body's tissues, which strains the kidneys. Kidney failure can result in an imminent risk of mortality.
You will sweat profusely during a bushfire due to the elevated air temperature and the additional strain of donning other garments for protection against radiant heat. Active bushfire defense personnel may experience fluid loss of up to two liters per hour.
Avoiding dehydration is as easy as maintaining body temperature by splashing one's face with cold water, consuming cool water regularly irrespective of thirst, and avoiding alcoholic beverages and carbonated drinks, exacerbating dehydration. Child care and elderly care should be given special consideration, as they are particularly vulnerable. The epidermis can be cooled with cold water sponging. Ensure they consume alcohol frequently.

Step 3: Protect From Fire Smoke

Smoke from bushfires comprises particles of varying dimensions. The health effects of smoke are contingent upon several factors, including age, the presence of any respiratory or pulmonary conditions, and the duration of exposure.
Illusion caused by smoke manifests as wheezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose. Smoke cessation expeditiously alleviates the effects of smoke exposure for the majority of healthy adults. Individuals with pre-existing conditions such as asthma or cardiac conditions, children, and older adults are more susceptible to the adverse effects of inhaling fine smoke particles.
On days with smoke, make an effort to:
  • When feasible, reduce outdoor physical activity to a minimum.
  • It is advisable to minimize movement and prevent contact with smoke if you have a pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular condition. Additionally, carry prescribed medications nearby for use.
  • To reduce indoor pollution, maintain closed windows and doors and set air conditioners to "recycle or recirculate" mode when operating.
  • Immediately consult a medical professional if you develop difficulty inhaling or chest pain.

Step 4: Protect From Injuries

Physical harm is more likely to occur in the vicinity of a conflagration. Poor visibility, falling branches, heated objects, overexertion, emotional exhaustion, or a fall from an unsecured ladder or rooftop are all potential causes of these injuries.
It is advisable to exercise caution when traversing one's property, maintain a heightened awareness of hot objects, recognize one's physical and emotional boundaries, and don protective gear to minimize the risk of injury.

Step 5: If You Are On The Road

Driving amid a conflagration is an exceptionally hazardous endeavor. Every inhabitant must have a meticulously crafted bushfire survival plan in bushfire-prone regions. Prepare to defend your home from the inside out, or evacuate to a secure location well before the anticipated fire's arrival.
One must exercise utmost vigilance and caution while traversing the nation amidst the bushfire season. Maintain attention and make mental notes of sturdy structures, such as buildings and farmhouses, that could serve as a sanctuary during a bushfire while driving. Seek out locations with reduced, well-managed vegetation.
Pull over to the side of the road with extreme caution if you observe a distance conflagration to assess the situation. When it becomes safe, decide to reverse course and travel to a secure location. Depending on the fire's proximity, contemplate seeking refuge in a previously traversed substantial structure as the fire front moves past.


What To Do After A Bushfire in Australia?

After a conflagration, various dangers and risks must be evaluated and mitigated. This includes hazards associated with burned or fire-damaged residences and structures, diminished visibility caused by smoke, and falling trees and branches. Combusted houses, sheds, appliances, and other facilities or buildings may leave health hazards in the ash and debris after a bushfire in Australia.
what to do after a bushfire

Step 1: Check Your Well Being

Strong reactions are common after a traumatic or distressing experience; individuals may manifest a variety of physical, mental, emotional, and behavioral responses. You and your family may have access to a variety of support services that can aid in the recovery process from any intense physical or emotional reactions that may be occurring. If you or a loved one is ever experiencing mental health concerns, please dial 13 11 14 to visit your local community health center or consult a professional psychologist or physician at Lifeline.

Step 2: Waste Water Management

Driving, walking, or being near your on-site wastewater management system, which may have been compromised or destroyed in the fire, including septic tanks and aerated wastewater treatment systems, is dangerous. A licensed engineer or service technician should inspect the on-site wastewater system for bushfire damage. Immediate preparations should be undertaken to ensure that the system is repaired. It is advisable to minimize water consumption until the system undergoes inspection and maintenance.

Step 3: Food Safety

It is best to discard any food that has come into contact with a fire, including food stored in canisters and cans, even if it seems undrinkable. Food that is uncooked or packaged in containers with screw tops, such as cardboard, plastic wrap, bottles, or jars, should also be discarded. As toxins enter, food should be discarded from the refrigerator and freezer. 
After rinsing and washing cooking utensils that have come into contact with fire-fighting chemicals in detergent hot water, disinfect them with one tablespoon of chlorine bleach per two liters of water. A power interruption may render the contents of your refrigerator and freezer unfit for consumption. Understanding proper refrigeration techniques and what to do with perishable goods during a power restoration is vital.


Final Thoughts

According to reports, Australia is the most explosive nation on the planet, and three consecutive La Niña cycles have resulted in abundant fuel. It is time to make preparations for the increased conflagration risk. This page contains advice on preparing for a bushfire in Australia, including practices and actions to take before, during, and after a bushfire. Including a Jackery Solar Generator in the emergency supplies for a bushfire is critical to guarantee stable and consistent power for charging essential electronics.

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