It's not summer yet but the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) is prompting Sutherland Shire residents to organise a 'get ready' plan by educating themselves about potential bushfire dangers this year.
Volunteer firefighters are calling on residents to know their action plan ahead of the 'Get Ready Weekend' on September 14-15.
Although the message is a serious one, several events including open days at brigades across the shire this month aim to brings a fun family event to the community.
There will be educational activities for kids, firefighting displays, the chance to climb aboard a fire truck or boat or get a close look at specialist equipment. Kids can also have their photo taken with a firefighter.
Importantly residents can also get some information and advice on preparing their properties for the bush fire season.
NSW RFS Inspector Scott Deller says all residents in the shire need to be prepared.
"It has already been a busy start to the fire season with significant activity in northern NSW and South East Queensland", Inspector Deller said.
"We have deployed firefighters to these areas and we expected in the absence of meaningful rain, that these conditions will continue and shift south during spring".
"During recent months, fire agencies have been busy undertaking important hazard reduction burns, maintaining firefighting equipment and undergoing training".
"Get Ready Weekend is a chance for Sutherland Shire residents to do their bit to prepare and protect their family and property in the event of a fire. Ninety per cent of homes are lost from ember attack, and residents play a critical role in increasing their homes survival.
"Volunteer firefighters will be available to talk to about the simple things you can do to reduce your bushfire risk. Preparing for bush fires is easier than people may think. It could be as simple as talking to your family about what you would do if a bush fire was to start near them."
Details: Sutherland Fire Control Centre 85084040.
BRIGADES HOSTING EVENTS THIS MONTH
September 14:
Bunnings Kingsgrove - Get Ready event, all day
Illawong RFS Brigade open day, 10am-2pm
Menai RFS Brigade open day, 9am-2pm
Waterfall RFS Brigade open day, 10am-3pm
September 15:
Kurnell RFS Brigade open day, 9.30am-1pm
Engadine RFS Brigade open day, 10am-2pm
Woronora RFS Brigade open day, 9am-midday
Loftus RFS Brigade open day, 10am-2pm
Sutherland Shire Bushcare Fair, Parc Menai, Menai RFS Brigade open day, 10am-3pm
September 22:
Art of Living Festival, Bundeena Oval, Bundeena RFS Brigade, 10am-2pm