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What to wear this summer
It’s the old Friday night dilemma. ‘What do I wear?’
Whether you’ve made the decision to stay and defend or you’re preparing for Plan B, dressing for bushfire season is all about skin protection.
In this article we’ll talk about how to kit yourself out for safety and comfort, so you’ll be ready to meet some of the toughest challenges you could ever be faced with.
And you thought prom night was a stressful fashion event.
Task: Raid the Wardrobe
Defending your home from fire means you’re going to be constantly on the move, through some of the most extreme condtions you’re ever likely to face. Your key item will be your PPC (Personal Protective Clothing)
You’re going to need clothing that will provide you the best protection during fire conditions.
Here’s what to look for in your wardrobe:
- All natural fibres like cotton or wool – they don’t melt
- Full length coverage of arms and legs to keep the embers out
- Loose fitting durable layers. The more air pockets between layers, the more you’ll be shielded from heat conducting through to your skin.
- Solid enclosed shoes – work boots are great
- Gloves – leather or sturdy cotton are best
- Cover for your mouth and nose – a good mask with P2 respirator, wet cloth, or an old-school cloth nappy soaked in water and tied round the back of your head
- Eye protection. Wrap-around work goggles offer the best protection from smoke and debris but sunnies will do in a pinch.
Dig deep into your cupboards and show us what you’ve got! For bonus points send us a photo for the best dressed award! Email, Facebook or hashtag #GetFireReady
Refresher: Stay and Defend Checklist
This list may look familiar, but a reminder never hurts. Before committing to stay and defend your property:
☐ Tell your friends and family that you have decided to stay and defend so they can check in with you later.
☐ Have your communications organised and charged – phone, battery powered AM radio, two-way radios.
☐ Brush up on your defence tasks
☐ Organise a teammate to help you if possible. Two people can keep an eye on more of the property and provide logistical and moral support. Band together with neighbours if you can.
☐ You won’t be able to do all of this and care for someone else. If you have little kids or injured or infirm adults in your care make plans to get them out of the area ahead of time so you can get on with the important task at hand.
☐ Have minimum 3 litres drinking water per person ready to go. Dehydration in hot dry conditions happens very quickly.
☐ Keep snacks on hand, and electrolyte drinks to help you stay hydrated
Done and done!
Once you’ve nailed this task, give yourself the big tick for sorting out your PPC (Personal Protective Clothing).
Your bushfire plan is almost complete! Next we’ll brush up on some essential bushfire knowledge, after which you can tick off Stage Two!