Fire Season

The fire season is well and truly upon us and with the high temperatures and windy conditions this has already become a reality for some.

In 2002 we experienced a devastating fire first hand that started at the bottom of this valley (when there were only 1 or 2 houses) and travelled up this hill so fast I watched frozen to the spot and in total awe of how furious fire can be. The girls and I were evacuated and were not allowed to return to our property for several hours. Steve made it home from work in Mt Lawley in just 24 mins (normally a 50-55 min drive) and was allowed in to fight the blaze. We were lucky. Just some superficial damage to some fences and a damaged wall due to the firetruck leaving. We have a fire plan in place and we all know what needs doing so that we can leave our house with the best possible chance of surviving should this happen again (hopefully never to happen again).

This photo was taken just a few days ago when a fire took hold in Brigadoon about 10kms south of where we are. A big smoke haze and ash fallout. No homes (that I know of) were lost and no lives were taken....this time.

I know we choose to live in a high fire risk area and we take all precautions to ensure that we and the house are safe - some people understand this, some don't. We live with nature surrounding us but we also respect nature and how devastating fire can be when faced with its fury. So to those of you who have experienced this first hand - I understand. To those who haven't because of good management, keep that plan in place. To those that think it will be ok if I ignore it - please don't cause it could happen to you. To those that light these fires - go find something constructive to do with your time.