As the fire season began on 1 October, Cowra Shire Council is urging residents to take proactive steps to protect their properties and reduce the risk of bush and grassfires. Council is reminding landowners of the importance of maintaining clean yards and tidy blocks of land, as dry vegetation, debris, and overgrown grass can act as fuel, making fires more intense and harder to control.
With the region’s hot, dry conditions expected to intensify during the warmer months, ensuring that properties are prepared for potential fires is essential. Cowra Shire Mayor, Cr. Paul Smith, highlighted the critical role the community plays in safeguarding the town. “Fire season is a time when we all need to be vigilant. By keeping our properties clear of flammable materials, we are reducing the chances of fires spreading, not just on our land, but across the whole region,” said Cr. Smith.
The Mayor emphasised the importance of community collaboration in fire prevention. “As we prepare for the heat of the summer, I urge every member of our community to take action. A clean, fire-safe yard is not just good practice—it’s essential for the protection of our homes and our families. Let’s work together to ensure a safe and fire-ready Cowra this summer,” Cr. Smith concluded.
Property owners and residents are encouraged to clear any flammable vegetation, such as dry leaves, twigs, and overgrown grass, from their properties, especially within a 20-meter radius around homes and buildings. This creates a defendable space that can help slow or stop the spread of fires. Residents are also encouraged to check their fences, gutters, and roofs for debris that could catch fire easily.
Council’s recommendations extend beyond basic yard maintenance. Property owners are also urged to maintain firebreaks, which are clear, wide areas of land that can help stop the spread of a fire. Ensuring that these firebreaks are properly maintained can provide a vital line of defence, especially in bushland areas.
Council and local authorities advise having a fire evacuation plan in place, ensuring that everyone in the household knows what to do in the event of a fire. Keeping emergency numbers easily accessible and being familiar with local fire danger ratings can also help residents stay prepared.
Preparation is key to reducing the risk of fire damage. With conditions becoming more unpredictable each year, the actions taken by residents can have a significant impact on the safety of the community. A well-prepared community is a safer community, and with everyone doing their part, Cowra can face this fire season with confidence.
Our Roads Maintenance Team performs regular slashing on local and regional roads to reduce fuel load and mitigate fire risk, while the Environment and Planning Team conducts regular property inspections to ensure compliance with fire safety regulations. These teams may issue notices to residents to manage overgrown vegetation on their properties. At the Local Emergency Management Committee (LEMC), we collaborate with Rural Fire Services to coordinate efforts for community preparedness and response.
Together, Cowra can stay safe and fire-ready this summer.