Summer is almost here and Samaritans Purse is encouraging us to get bushfire ready.

Each year, Samaritan’s Purse responds to Australians affected by natural disaster including flood, storm and fire. In the aftermath of each disaster, our team of volunteers witness first the loss and trauma experienced by those impacted. More than 18 million Australians were affected in some way by a natural disaster last year.

Samaritan’s Purse has prepared four simple yet crucial steps every family should consider as we approach bushfire season.

Step One – Understand and monitor the risks around you

Take measures to understand the historic and present risks in your community. Monitor the directives from fire authorities in your local area.

Step Two: Prepare a safety evacuation plan

Have a plan for your household to safely evacuate in the event of an emergency. A plan should include a procedure for your family and pets to safely exit the house.

Step Three: Prepare an emergency bag

A grab-and-go bag will give you a huge advantage when evacuating your home in the event of a disaster. Consolidating your essentials can make a huge difference when responding to an emergency.

Step Four: Safeguard your property

Taking steps to minimising the fire risks around your property not only protects your home from bush fire or ember attack, but also reduces risk to your neighbours. A well prepared home is also more easily defended against bushfires.

During a bushfire Samaritan’s Purse partners with local churches and volunteers to help clean properties, cut trees, sift through ashes, and offer physical and emotional support hundreds of individuals affected by the fires.