Plans and tips for bushfire season

Above: Firefighters at the recent bushfire training exercise in Dayboro.

Moreton Bay firefighters have been put through their paces as the state enters a new bushfire season.

Teams from Rural Fire Service Queensland (RFSQ) and Moreton Bay City Council had a training exercise at Dayboro Showgrounds.

More than 70 personnel were involved to prepare for the bushfire season - which typically starts in July - and deployment requests.

Ground fuel loads are likely to have increased following a wet first half of 2025 with Tropical Cycle Alfred in March and torrential rain in April,

Redcliffe had a record daily total of almost 100m on April 13, which contributed to the peninsula's highest April total of 260mm.

Queensland Rural Fire Service (QRFS) Pine Rivers Group Administration Officer Melissa Webb said there has been fuel assessment and burn plans.

“Due to the rain, growth (on the ground) will be expected and now its time for hazard reduction burns,” she said.

“This is the time to get everything prepared (for the hotter summer months). Everyone should have a bushfire plan in place, regardless of the weather.”

Key areas for the hazard reduction burn teams will be where the growing housing footprint of Moreton Bay region meets rural areas.

Queensland Fire Department (QDF) warns bushfire seasons usually run to October, but “can extend to February”. Bushfires can also “occur at any time”.

“These times can vary each year depending on the condition of local bushland, long-term climate conditions and short-term weather events,” the QDF says.

“The impacts of climate change are creating extended fire seasons that include higher temperatures with more frequent hot days, and increased fire danger across the state.”

QFD urges residents to take precautions: “A well prepared home is easier to defend and reduces the risk to surrounding properties.”

Among the QFD’s recommendations are:

• Clear gutters and roof of leaves, twigs, bark and other debris. Consider installing gutter guards.
• Enclose open areas under decks and floors. Install steel wire mesh screens on windows, doors, vents, and weep holes.
• Reduce vegetation along access paths and mow your lawn regularly.
• Display your house number at the road and ensure adequate space for fire trucks to access your home
• Prepare your evacuation kit and/or emergency kit and stock your first aid kit.
• Check insurance policies are adequate for home and vehicles.
• Review and update your Bushfire Survival Plan as a family each year.

For full details go to www.fire.qld.gov.au/prepare/bushfire/prepare-for-bushfire-season