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As the Fire Season of 2008/2009 approaches, it's important that we keep the safety of our homes at the forefront of our minds at all times! We don't necessarily need to be in a "Bushfire zone" to be subject to fire. Consistent exposure to extreme temperatures has proven to be a contributing factor to house fires.

According to the Insurance Council of Australia, up to one third of insured properties are under-insured by up to 30%. Based on this statistic alone, it highlights the need to continually revise your Home & Contents sums insured to remain up-to-date with current market replacement costs - Especially as the heat-wave approaches.

There's a number of preventative measures that can be taken to minimise the risk that your home faces, both before and during the Fire Season.

• Reduce the fuel around your home - Fuel is dried-out material that will burn: branches, sticks, twigs, leaves, bark, grass & furniture.
  
• Make sure that external house timbers have a sound coat of paint.
  
• Check that fire fighting equipment is operational - Garden hoses should reach all sides of your home.
  
• All trees and plants will burn if conditions are severe. Good design and maintenance of the property will reduce the risk of loss due to fire.
  
• Make sure surrounding grassed areas are trimmed and well-watered.
  
• Trim under fences and remove overgrown bushes and plants.
  
• Clear overhanging trees and shrubs from close to the house.
  
• Store flammable liquids in proper containers in safe, sensible places.

As for bushfires, these are one of nature's most dangerous forces! As urban-sprawl continues across Australia, more and more people are living in and near bushland, in semi-rural and urban residential estates on the outskirts of cities and towns, where bushfire is most likely. Making your own plan for bushfire survival is essential. The decision to stay and defend your home or evacuate depends on whether adequate preparations have been made.

If you'd like to discuss your Insurance options, please contact an mecu Insurance Consultant on 132 888 today!