Could a roof sprinkler save your home in a bushfire?
A Tasmanian couple successfully protected their home from a bushfire by using roof sprinklers and maintaining a firebreak. The fire, which burned through over 1,200 hectares, came alarmingly close to their property but left it unscathed. Experts emphasize the importance of home design and preparation in mitigating bushfire risks.
- ▪The Walkers' home was nearly engulfed by the Stieglitz bushfire, which destroyed two nearby houses.
- ▪They installed a rooftop sprinkler system and maintained a firebreak to enhance their home's fire resistance.
- ▪Fire experts warn that homes are vulnerable at their weakest points, such as doormats.
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Bushfires could 'exploit' doormat for entry to your home, fire expert warnsBBy Bec PridhamTopic:BushfiresSat 23 May 2026 at 9:31amSat 23 May 2026 at 9:31amSat 23 May 2026 at 9:31amThe 2025 Stieglitz bushfire burned to the boundary line of the Walkers' home. Before evacuating, the couple turned on their roof sprinklers to protect their house. (ABC News: Morgan Timms)In short:A Tasmanian couple living in a bushfire-prone area has credited good design, roof sprinklers, and a well-maintained firebreak for saving their home in a recent blaze.A fire scientist says homes are as strong as their weakest link, and "nooks and crannies" — including the doormat — could be exploited during a bushfire.What's next?Some home insurers provide policy discounts for home owners who take steps to reduce their…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at ABC News (Australia).