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Communications, Water and Housing.

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a male hand holding a hose

Community communications management

Managing and improving communication strategies and equipment during the recovery phase for affected communities helps authorities to quickly provide effective communication channels when they are needed in the future.

Individuals and community groups that bond very well are able to share relevant information on what, where and how to seek help. Effective communication between individuals also leads to caring and a sense of belonging.

Water management for fire resilient landscapes

When a bushfire occurs, town water pressure is very likely to drop drastically and may be unavailable altogether due to a combination of power failures and damaged pipes. The lack of rain due to drought or climate change is one of the factors increasing the vulnerability to bushfires in landscapes and settlement.

Bush fire resistant housing & garden design

While it is impossible for the human factor to be eliminated, the proper design, construction and management of houses and properties is crucial for reducing the risks of bushfire. Low pressure spray systems mounted along outside walls/gutters are very useful in enhancing the safety of roof spaces without the expense of high pressure and volume roof mounted sprinkler systems.

Vegetation/Plant selection

Plant selection measures can be taken to minimise the chance of them igniting. This is crucial for safeguarding households and other assets from bushfires. Planting and maintaining low-flammability species will potentially act as barriers and reduce the rate at which fires will spread.

© CIFAL Newcastle, University of Newcastle, Australia
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Bushfires: Response, Relief and Resilience

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