Still time to prepare defence

With hot and windy conditions forecast for the weekend, fire authorities have renewed their calls for property owners to prepare themselves and their properties for a possible bushfire.

The Weather Bureau forecasts maximum temperatures of 38C for Saturday and Sunday, with winds of up to 30km/h - conditions in which fires could start suddenly and spread quickly.

A map showing Department of Fire and Emergency Services modelling released after the fire showed Sunday's blaze could have affected a much bigger area, with 425 homes in Mt Helena under threat.

After Emergency Services Minister Joe Francis expressed frustration over the unpreparedness of some residents affected by the weekend's bushfire, DFES has advised residents to reassess their readiness and put in place last-minute measures.

DFES says any long grass around the property should be cut and all dead material, rubbish, leaf litter and twigs should be removed as soon as possible.

Trees with low branches near the house should be pruned.

Gutters should be free of leaves and all flammable materials such as firewood and fuel containers should be stored away from the house.

DFES operations and command deputy commissioner Lloyd Bailey urged people to practise their plan in the coming days.

"Defending your home will take a huge physical and mental effort for many hours, so make sure you have the right equipment and your property is prepared to the highest level," he said.

Firefighters also suggest compiling a survival kit regardless of whether you are preparing to leave or stay and defend. This should include items such as a first-aid kit, portable radio and enough drinking water for your family. Medications, cash and credit cards and important documents can be added to the kit on the day.

Association of Volunteer Bushfire Brigade WA president Terry Hunter said it was imperative everyone in bushfire-prone areas did everything in their power now, before it was too late.

"It's not just about you and your family," he said. "You have to think of your neighbours and also the career and volunteer fire fighters who risk their lives to protect you and your home."

He said it was most important to ensure nothing flammable remained on the sides of the house.

"Embers can move ahead of the fire, catch and ignite - you could lose your home even if the fire face doesn't reach you," he said.

For more information visit www.areyouready.wa.gov.au .