As the Tasmanian fire season approaches, it’s important to have a plan and know your options.

Community Bushfire Protection Planning is a national initiative that helps to identify safety options during a bushfire threat.

Tasmania Fire Service works closely with communities, local government, service providers, and other government agencies to create Community Bushfire Protection Plans and implement risk management strategies.

Each plan is tailored to individual communities to best suit their needs.

Tasmania Fire Service Chief Officer, Dermot Barry said it was important for people to be prepared, regardless of whether they choose to stay or leave if a bushfire threatens their community.

“Understanding risks and taking steps to mitigate them is important for everyone, but especially those living in bushfire prone areas,” he said.

“We want to make sure people are informed, prepared and ready for when a bushfire strikes.”

Community Bushfire Protection Plans provide advice on what to do:

• Before the fire

• When fires are likely or nearby; and

• After the fire.

There are currently 139 Community Bushfire Protection Plans in place across Tasmania, with nine new plans for Murdunna, Heybridge, Redpa, Marrawah, Ringarooma, Bakers Beach, Penguin, Beechford and Deviot due to be added soon. Additionally, 11 existing plans have been updated in Strahan, Zeehan, Molesworth, Tinderbox, Campania, Eagle Hawk Neck, Ansons Bay, Claude Road, Taranna, Cradle Mountain and South Hobart. 

To see your local area’s Community Bushfire Protection Plan, visit the TFS website at www.fire.tas.gov.au