This year, Australian bushfire season is starting earlier than ever before, making it especially vital to be aware of property protection and the safe use of rainwater storage.
Rules & Regulations for Bush Fire Rated Areas
Buildings constructed in bushfire prone areas must comply with the Australian Standard AS 3959-2018 – Construction of buildings in bushfire-prone areas or the NASH Standard – Steel Framed Construction in Bushfire Areas. Although they do not guarantee a home will survive a bushfire, they greatly reduce the risk of ignition.
Looking To Add A New Water Tank To A Property?
These rules and regulations apply not only to the construction of new buildings, but also to their alternations and additions. Here is what you need to keep in mind when considering adding a new water tank to your existing property.
Steel Tanks During The Bushfire Season
During bushfire season, evidence shows that steel tanks maintain their structural integrity and are able to efficiently retain water during and after fire exposure. Although they may pose certain problems to zones not in bushfire risk, the benefits outweigh the costs within bushfire areas.
Poly Tanks During The Bushfire Season
Poly tanks have a variety of benefits. They are lightweight and easier to move into position, making them easier to position. Their biggest advantage over steel tanks is that they don’t rust, meaning they also won’t have to be replaced. During bushfire season, however, poly tanks can blister and melt, therefore making steel tanks more recommended for areas in bushfire risk zones.
Rainwater Tanks – After A Bushfire
It is also worth keeping in mind that rainwater tanks can become contaminated after a bushfire – due to smoke, debris and ash and firefighting efforts.
Contaminated Water
If your tank is contaminated, it changes the way the water can be used. If the water is cloudy or contains debris, if there are dead animals in the tank or gutter, if it encountered fire suppressant water, it is likely that the water in your tank has been contaminated.
If this is the case, the water can be used for flushing toilets, washing cars and watering the garden. It is not drinkable. It is also important to note that the first rain after a bushfire should also not be used as part of drinking water, as it is likely also contaminated with ash and other pollutants from the fire.
After the bushfire, you will need to get your tank professionally cleaned and refilled. You will also need to check whether any plumbing or pipes have been damaged.
Contact Us For Sydney Rainwater Tanks
At Aussie Water Savers, we understand how rainwater tanks can be affected during bushfire season and are able to provide advice, maintenance and new tanks to purchase. If you are interested in investing in a water tank, contact Aussie Water Savers today: the water tank manufacturer who genuinely wants to help. We are available online and on (02) 9623 4700. We look forward to hearing from you.