Fire services across Australia respond to up to 60,000 reports of bushfires every year.
That incredible number means that at any given time, there are literally dozens of bushfires raging in each state. It’s so common most of us don’t even think about it until the weather turns hot and blowy, and there’s a bushfire bearing down.
And once that happens, things get real.
Each year, the rural and country fire services urge us all to make a bushfire plan, but you can still be vulnerable even if you live in a leafy city suburb.
One consideration often missing in a family fire plan is how to manage your pets. They have an innate sense of danger if the fire is close, so be aware that they might not react in a predictable or safe way.
Importantly, you must not risk human life trying to find or protect your pets.
Some evacuation centres may not accept animals, so think ahead and decide early if they should be moved safely to the home of family or friends living outside the danger zone. This will help avoid any unnecessary risk.
If you stay in place, make sure you have plenty of water, supplies of their food and any medications or other needs just in case you remain stranded for an extended period.
Ensure your pets are all properly identified with name tags and microchips so that if they do escape and become disoriented they can be returned to you.
If you must flee and it is impossible to take some animals, such as goats, with you then it is best to leave them indoors or under cover. Provide adequate food and water in large heavy bowls. If left outside, do not tie them up as this may prohibit their escape in dire circumstances.