Bushfire risk much higher this season: ICA

17 Oct 2012, 12:53 pm   -   Source: AAP
An insurance group has warned the risk of bushfires in Australia this season is higher than normal. (AAP)

An insurance group has warned the risk of bushfires in Australia this season is higher than normal. (AAP)

Abundant fuel sources and higher-than-average temperatures expected for much of Australia this spring and summer point to an increased risk of bushfires.

The risk of bushfires around Australia this spring and summer is much higher than in recent years, so households in vulnerable areas should start preparing now, insurers have urged.

Insurance Council of Australia chief executive Rob Whelan cited the Bureau of Meteorology on Wednesday in warning that bushfires were more likely in coming months than over the previous couple of years.

"The very wet weather Australia experienced over the past two years has created optimal conditions for the growth of grasslands, providing potential fires with an abundant fuel source and means there will be a high fire risk from now until March," Mr Whelan said in a statement.

"The seasonal outlook also points to higher-than-average temperatures for much of Australia."

The traditional bushfire season had just started but there had already been significant bushfires that threatened homes and businesses on the east coast, including the NSW Central Coast, and Queensland's Darling Downs and Atherton Tablelands.

Western Australia has also been hit by bushfires while South Australia's Country Fire Service this week imposed total fire bans in parts of the state.

"Householders in areas at risk of bushfires should take steps to prepare now," Mr Whelan said.

Such households should physically prepare their properties by fitting smoke alarms and removing flammable materials from around the home, including clearing dry leaves from gutters, he said.

They should also review their level of insurance cover for vehicles as well as home and contents, Mr Whelan suggested.

"Understand the cover you have and what is and is not included in your policy, and ask your insurer for clarification," he said.

"And if you are not happy with the policy your insurer offers, shop around for a better deal."

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