To help fight the scourge, Central Coast Council has installed tanks in strategic rural locations across the region.
Council Director Assets, Infrastructure and Business Mike Dowling said the installation of the water tanks would reduce turnaround times for fire trucks during an emergency.
“Council is working closely with the Rural Fire Service to identify high risk locations without access to the town water supply, so that we can help better serve these communities during an emergency,” Mr Dowling said.
“Residents in Dooralong and Holgate can now be confident that the local Rural Fire Brigades have better access to water for firefighting purposes with two 35,000 litre tanks in operation in both of these communities.
“We often take for granted access to water during emergencies, however for the fire fighters in these communities it can take more than 30 minutes to leave a fire, refill and return before continuing the fight.
“These tanks provide enough water for 23 firefighting tanker loads of water and will reduce the turnaround time significantly.”
Council will also be commissioning water tanks at Mount Elliot and the northern end of Holgate before the end of the season. Planning for a further two tanks at Durren Durren is also underway.
Council will continue to work with the Rural Fire Service and the Bush Fire Committee to identify further possible sites across the region.
