Preparing for a Bushfire
The intensity and course of a bushfire can change rapidly and threaten the safety of homes and businesses alike. However, you can take action before, during and after a bushfire to reduce the impact on your home or business.
Before a Bushfire
- Clear leaves and debris from gutters, roofs and downpipes at your premises. Fit quality metal leaf guards on gutters. Equip your premises with a sufficient
number of fire extinguishers. - Keep safe by making sure everyone is familiar with your evacuation plan and knows where first-aid and emergency kits are. Check that operational and other data
is backed up, and that stock and other key items can be moved if needed. - Ensure you provide your Account Manager of any major changes that happen within your business so they can make sure that the sum for which you are insured covers the replacement value of the items that you wish to insure.
During a Bushire
- Use a battery-powered radio to monitor your local radio station for updates on the bushfire, weather, power supply, emergency warnings and evacuation alerts. Contact 000 or your local SES in any emergency.
- Close all windows and doors. Wear protective clothing. Ensure that you and your family or colleagues drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- If you can, safely evacuate. Before you leave the premises turn off gas and power, close doors and windows, and plug gaps with wet towels.
After a Bushfire
- Stay away from fallen power lines and anything that they may be touching. Also avoid damaged gas lines.
- Check for small spot fires on your premises and extinguish them if possible. If there is any danger, contact 000 or your local SES.
- Once the danger has passed, take photos of damaged or destroyed items before disposing of them to assist in any insurance claims. Speak to our dedicated Claims Department or your Account Manager
to lodge your claim.
As always, please don’t hesitate to get in contact with us on (02) 9587 3500 or theteam@wsib.com.au should you have any questions or need any further advice.