Property owners are urged to take a proactive approach to managing fuel loads during Fire Prevention Week, to help support reduced fire risk to the community during the upcoming fire season.

This year’s dry winter, coupled with a burst of warm weather and spring rains, has stimulated grass and weed growth, further adding to fuel load levels across properties in the community.

Homes and workplaces are required to clear 20 metres around their property and 5m around buildings and structures. This includes cutting long grass, creating fire breaks and pruning tree limbs and overhanging branches.

According to City of Playford Mayor, Glenn Docherty, Fire Prevention Week (06-12 October), serves as a timely reminder for property owners to do their part in keeping themselves, their properties and their community safe.

“Fire Prevention week is a reminder to all of us in Playford to look out for each other and spend a weekend or two cleaning up flammable materials to reduce fire risk,” Mayor Docherty said.

“By doing your part, everyone can enjoy a safe and relaxing summer period.”

Poorly maintained properties with heavy fuel loads increase fire risk to families and neighbours, and Council officers will be out and about in the community from mid-October to assess properties and potential risks.

“Our community safety officers work with our community to help property owners not only understand their obligations under the Fire and Emergency Services Act 2005, but to also share simple tips for fire prevention,” the Mayor said.

“There are many simple things, like removing dead branches and cleaning up leaf litter, that will make your property safer over summer, and I encourage residents to use Fire Prevention Week as the catalyst to get cracking on those jobs well ahead of the fire danger season.”

Residents wanting to increase their fire prevention measures can apply for a permit from the CFS to increase vegetation clearance levels, while mowing or alterations to roadsides require Council permission.

Playford’s fire season dates are typically 01 December to 30 April, but dry conditions are expected to prompt a mid-November start date for the 2024/25 season.