As the Australia summer heats up, so too does the concern of wide-spread bushfires that have plagued the nation in recent years. Very little of the continent is free from the possibility of bushfire and with the strengthening El Nino in the Pacific, Australia looks to be in for another year of above average fire risks. Dry spells create an increased bushfire risk, especially after good rainfall has encouraged new growth. According to the Southern Australia seasonal bushfire outlook for 2015-16 which was released last month, a huge area spanning from south east South Australia up to the north of Rockhampton, and the south west corridor in Western Australia, are among the regions likely to experience an above-average bushfire season. 

This is why, this year more-so that previous years, it is important to prepare your home and family for the threat of a bushfire emergency and put in place a plan to ensure your safety. Across the country, Fire and Rescue Service recommend some simple steps to reduce the risk of a bushfire affecting your home:

• Clean leaves from gutters and roofs regularly, and fit metal leaf guards
• Mow your lawn regularly
• When installing LPG cylinders, make sure the pressure release valves face outwards
• Keep your yard free from any build up of flammable materials
• Ensure your garden hose is long enough to reach the perimeter of your boundary
• Trim low lying branches 2 meters from the ground surrounding your home
• On Total Fire Ban say obey regulations regarding barbecues and open fires
• Ensure all members of the family know where the community evacuation area is

When a fire occurs the restoration needs are greater than just smoke damage and smoke odour. Fire, smoke, water, soot and odour all cause damage to the property and if left unmediated, can cause long-term health and structural damage. Even property not directly affected by fire can be irreparably damaged due to the combination of soot and humidity. If left unmediated, this soot and moisture combination results in an acidic residue that will continue to damage furniture, carpets and structural elements of the property and will permeate the entire property.

At Brisbane Crime Scene Cleaning, our state-of-the techniques and remediation processes often prevent replacement costs, thereby reducing costs to homeowners. Fire and smoke damage restoration requires knowledge and skill; our Fire and Smoke Damage professionals have the expertise to do the job right. If your home or business has been affected by fire and smoke damage, call Brisbane Crime Scene Cleaning today.