Bushfire preparation
When a bushfire strikes, rest assured, Vero is here
At Vero, we understand how devastating bushfires can be.
That’s why we strive to bring you the latest information, resources and advice – especially any critical actions you should take. We’re committed to supporting you every step of the way – before, during and after a bushfire.
When you need to prepare for a bushfire, Vero is here
Although we live in a beautiful, golden country Australia’s hot, dry climate means we’re at high risk of bushfires during the warmer months.
So if you live or work in bushfire prone areas near bush, scrub or forestry, it’s vital you keep prepared to help ensure the safety of you, your family and your employees.
Here are some practical tips to help you reduce your risk this summer. And remember if you need any assistance – Vero is here.
Before a bushfire
- If you haven’t already, prepare an emergency kit and keep it handy (this can include things like first aid supplies, torch, battery operated radio, important documents and medicines).
- Subscribe to local alerts and warning systems to allow you to stay up-to-date with expert information and advice
- Regularly clear gutters and rubbish around the property
- Identify where and how to turn off the mains supply for water, power and gas
- Make sure the property has clear and easy access for emergency services
- Develop an evacuation plan and confirm the roles and responsibilities with your family and employees
- Ensure your vehicle is in good working order
- Review your contents insurance regularly to ensure new purchases are covered and your sum insured is adequate
Precautionary tip
If you haven't already, prepare an emergency kit and keep it handy (this can include things like first aid supplies, torch, battery operated radio, important documents and medicines).
Bushfire checklist
This guide will help you plan and prepare in the event of a bushfire.
At the onset of a bushfire
Please only take action if it’s safe to do so. For emergencies, please call 000.
- Use local alerts and warning systems to stay up to date with expert information and advice; listen to your radio
- If a warning is issued for your area, ensure your mobile battery is full and you have a full tank of fuel
- Follow emergency services advice; when directed to do so, evacuate immediately
- Block all gutters and fill with water
- Remove flammable drapes, curtains and any other combustible materials
- If you have more than one vehicle and you won’t need it to evacuate, you should move it to another location away from
the fire threat or put it in a locked garage. Avoid parking it on dry areas such as grass which can easily catch on fire - Close all garage doors and disconnect any automatic garage remotes/keys so you can still open the doors by hand if the power goes out.
Emergency contacts
- In an emergency call 000
- State Emergency Services (SES) information
Weather information
Fire departments
Important information
Please do not return to your property or vehicle until emergency services have confirmed you can.
If you’ve been affected by a bushfire, Vero is here
Important: please do not return to your property or vehicle until emergency services have confirmed you can.
We understand this is a stressful time for you, your family and your business, so we’ll do everything we can to make it easier for you.
We’ve listed important information below on how to lodge a claim, precautions you should take, and tips to help with a smooth claim process.
Precautions to take after a bushfire
Importantly, the safety of you, your loved ones and employees comes first. Please contact us if you need any further guidance. For emergencies, please call 000.
- If you have evacuated, it’s extremely important you do not return to your property or vehicle until emergency service
- have confirmed it's safe to do so
- For several hours after the fire, maintain a ‘fire watch’; keep checking for smoke and sparks throughout the grounds
- around your office or home
- If you have a safe within your property, do not open it, as it can hold intense heat for several hours
- Avoid damaged or fallen power lines, poles and downed wires
- Discard any food that has been exposed to heat, smoke or soot
- Do not use water that may have been contaminated
How to make a claim
Call the Claims Service Team on 1300 888 073. We’re here for you at any time, any day of the week.
When you call to make a claim, please have ready:
- your policy number
- name and contact details on the policy
- your ABN if you’re registered for GST
- details of the damage
Tips for lodgement
- Tell us if there’s an immediate danger such as emergency requirements, possible roof collapse, unable to return to the property for a period of time etc
- If your property or vehicle is not completely damaged, take precautions where possible to secure them
- If your vehicle is damaged, have its approximate location ready to tell our operator
- Take photographs of any damage – where safe to do so
- Do not dispose of any damaged parts of your property, contents or vehicle until we have agreed
- Do not wash, clean or remove debris from any damaged area without our consent – unless you need to do this to prevent further damage or for sanitation
- Do not carry out or authorise any repairs without our consent – unless you need to for emergency or safety reasons.
Emergency information and contacts
- In an emergency call 000
- State Emergency Services (SES) information
Remember that Vero is here for you – before, during and after a bushfire. If you need assistance or any further guidance, please contact us.
Important information
Please do not return to your property or vehicle until emergency services have confirmed you can.
Make a claim
Call the Claims Service Team on 1300 888 073.
We're here for you and your clients at any time and any day of the week.
