‘We know’ campaign launch ahead of dry summer

Community understanding, resilience and know-how has inspired the theme around Council’s new fire preparedness campaign - We Know.

We Know recognises the lived experience of so many in the community who endured the catastrophic fires of 2019 and 2020, and a nod to all those who played an active role in planning, preparedness and recovery during that time.

It is this first-hand experience that would hold the Shoalhaven in good stead as everyone prepares for the upcoming fire season. Communities across Australia are being urged for what is likely to be a terrible season of bushfires and we need to heed the warnings and prepare.

Although it can seem overwhelming when we are still recovering from the Currowan fires, it’s important to remember that the Shoalhaven has been tested before - we know the risk and what to do. We know what’s at stake, how real the devastation can be and what it takes to recover. We know how important it is to prepare emotionally and physically. A lot of work has been done as a community since the Currowan fires to build resilience and mitigate risk and this is a timely reminder to also do the small things to get bushfire ready - prepare yourself, your home and your business and stay up to date on conditions in your area.

The campaign draws on critical information from the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) and Council resources such as green waste tipping and bushfire recovery.

We know a well prepared home is more likely to survive a bushfire and ember attack, so one of the first campaign actions is to encourage the community to clean up around their house.

Throughout September, Council is providing free garden waste disposal at all recycling and waste depots. People should clear their garden of potential fuel hazards by clearing gutters, trimming overhanging branches and cleaning up fallen branches and debris.

Other ways to plan and prepare are featured on the We Know webpage.