Bushfire safety. Essentials – what do you need at home. Part II

Here are some essential items you should look at having as part of your bush fire plans and fire preparedness, along with the most essential safety item, a Fire Shelter or Fire Bunker.

• Smoke-filtering mask: Ideally, you should have a smoke-filtering respiratory mask available. Other than that, a non-synthetic scarf, large handkerchief or a nappy will do. Masks that will filter smoke are rated as “P2″. Asphyxiation is a major hazard in fire environment and should not be taken lightly. A simple cloth in front your nose is better than nothing, but far from effective against smoke particles. There are a few new products available on the market that combine head, eye and respiratory protection for up to 15 minutes. While not long, the masks are handy as they require no maintenance when not used and fit in a small space.
• A pure wool fire blanket, or textured fibreglass blanket which should be large enough to cover you completely when crouched or lying down.
• Water in containers for damping your nose cover and for drinking. A small spray bottle is a handy way to wet nose covers or sparks without wasting water.
• A bottle of artificial tears or gel to prevent your eyes from drying out. All required prescription medication if needed
• A tube or zink cream or reflective skin cream to protect the forehead and nose.
• A small first aid kit.
• Spare keys to house, car, shed and other important places.
• Special items like baby formula, nappies, bottles, powdered milk, contact lenses, spare set of eyeglasses, etc. as required.
• A credit card and/or some cash.
• Additionally it is a good idea to include some basic emergency tools: A good flashlight with plenty of extra batteries, a battery-powered radio or small two-way radio may prove valuable.

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