The house “skin” – make it harder for embers to bite

Most homes in the rural–urban interface are lost from embers, not big flames. Focus first on the roof, gutters, decks and anything leaning against the walls.

On the roof and gutters

• Clear dry leaves, bark and twigs from gutters, valleys and behind chimneys.
• Use metal gutter guards where possible; avoid plastic guards that can melt.
• Check roof tiles or sheets for gaps – repair loose or missing pieces if you can.
• Cover or plug gaps around roof penetrations where embers could get under roofing.

Around doors, windows and decks

• Remove flammable doormats, outdoor furniture, timber benches and pot plants against the house.
• Seal or mesh gaps under doors and around sliding tracks where embers can blow in.
• Keep decking swept clean; remove stored items and rubbish from under decks and stairs.
• Close all windows, external doors, shutters and blinds on the fire side.

Services & small details

• Turn off evaporative coolers if advised; fit ember-proof covers to roof units where possible.
• Check vents, weep holes and gaps – use fine metal mesh or purpose-made ember guards.
• Move gas bottles so valves face away from the house, and clear 3m around them.

The 30-metre zone – grass, garden and sheds

In the rural–urban interface, your garden, driveways and paddocks become a defendable space. Aim for short grass, separated shrubs and clear access for emergency vehicles.

1–10m – near zone

• Keep grass short, well-watered and free of dry clippings around the house.
• Choose low, fire-wise plants under windows; avoid tall, oily shrubs directly against walls.
• Move wood piles, mulch heaps, gas bottles, fuel, rubbish and trailers beyond 10m if possible.
• Keep under and around decks, verandas and ramps clear of stored items.

10–30m – outer zone

• Mow grass regularly; avoid long, continuous grass leading from paddocks to the house.
• Prune lower tree branches (where safe) to lift the canopy and reduce “ladder” fuels.
• Break up continuous shrubs into clumps with clear space or lawn between them.
• Keep access tracks and driveways clear so fire trucks can reach the house and turn around.

Boundary fences and neighbours

• Remove dry grass and rubbish along fence lines, especially timber and brush fences.
• Talk with neighbours about shared driveways, easements and laneways that need clearing.
• Ensure gates are unlocked (where appropriate) and visible house numbers are at the road.

Fire equipment and technology that can help

Fire gear and technology can support your bushfire plan, but they do not replace leaving early. Use them to buy time, improve information and support firefighters.

Smart tech & early warning

• VicEmergency app with your watch zones set (home, school, work, relatives).
• Battery-powered or vehicle-powered phone chargers and backup lighting.
• Outdoor cameras or Wi-Fi doorbells (where available) to check conditions remotely.
• Simple SMS or group chat with neighbours to share local observations and check-ins.