With property insurers already filling inboxes with bushfire season warnings and the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) forecasting a heightened risk of heatwaves and bushfires as Australia heads into the warmer months[i], now is the time to ensure your property is ready for summer.

While those living near bushland are most at risk, recent events, such as the devastating wildfires that swept through suburban Los Angeles earlier this year, show that bushfires have the potential to increasingly encroach on suburban areas in Australia too.

According to the BOM, conditions are expected to be particularly challenging across the south-east and the Kimberley region of Western Australia[ii]. But while the climate itself cannot be controlled, property owners can take proactive steps to reduce the risk of fire damage and safeguard their homes and communities.

1. Garden hose safety

The first step is to ensure the property is ready for bush fire season starting with garden hose safety. Garden hoses should reach the entire perimeter of the home and be in good working condition.

2. Taking precautions with combustible materials

Flammable materials such as paint, fuel, and gas bottles should be stored safely away from the house and kept in fire-safe locations.

3. Focusing on the roof

Gutters and drains need to be cleared regularly to remove dry leaves and debris that could ignite from bush fire embers, and metal gutter guards can help prevent future build-up.

4. Building safety

To prepare the bricks and mortar itself, installing metal mesh screens on windows and doors and fitting seals around doors and windows will help prevent embers from entering.

Property owners should also have an electrical safety switch, use only recommended fuse ratings, install non-combustible doormats, and enclose areas under the house where debris can collect and potentially cause havoc.

5. Outside the home

In the garden, overhanging branches should be pruned within 10 metres of the home, lawns kept under 10 centimetres, while in higher risk areas, perhaps consider replacing flammable mulch replaced with rocks or pebbles.

Shrubs near or under windows should be trimmed, and outdoor furniture, woodpiles, and combustible chemicals moved well away from the house.

6. Neighbourhood watch

Property owners are also encouraged to speak with their neighbours and local councils about community firebreaks and preparedness plans. Staying informed is crucial, and each state and territory fire authority provides comprehensive bushfire checklists, alerts, and real-time updates online.

Table 1: Bush fire services by state and territory

Many authorities also offer mobile apps and live updates through ABC Local Radio during emergencies.

For some tips on making your property fire-proof, be sure to talk to your local Raine & Horne agent.

[i] https://beta.bom.gov.au/video/long-range-forecast-october-to-december-2025

[ii] https://beta.bom.gov.au/video/long-range-forecast-october-to-december-2025