Author: Brian December 21, 2015

This is a singlet . . . . . it is not protective clothing!

Yet every year (including this week, December 2015) I see on the news someone fighting a bushfire around their property wearing a singlet and shorts.

If you build your new house in an area at bushfire risk a singlet is not going to protect you from:

• Burns from Flames, Sparks and Embers;
• Extreme heat leading to Heat Exhaustion;
• Smoke, damaging you lungs.

Even if you plan to leave you may get trapped by a fast moving bushfire . . . . so it’s best to have proper protection for everyone in your household.

Protective Clothing

Here is some advice on what your protective clothing should include:

• Heavy cotton pants, for example denim jeans;
• Long-sleeved shirt (made out of natural fibres such as cotton or wool);
• Strong leather work boots with thick woollen or cotton socks;
• Leather gloves;
• Hard hat or wide-brimmed hat;
• Glasses or goggles to protect your eyes against smoke, embers and debris in the air;
• Leather gloves;
• A face mask to protect your mouth or nose.

Make sure everything is loose fitting and made from all natural fibres.

It’s even better if you can have a natural fibre coat or overall as well. . . . Just check out what the firemen wear.

For more information check your state bushfire service website.