In areas of Melbourne subject to the Bushfire Management Overlay (BMO), local councils enforce strict building and development regulations to reduce bushfire risks. These measures include strategic landscaping, fire-resistant building materials, and most importantly, the incorporation of water tanks as a critical resource for fire-fighting and bushfire preparedness.
What is the BMO?
The BMO applies to areas prone to high bushfire risks. Its purpose is to ensure that developments are designed to withstand and mitigate the impact of bushfires. Councils in Melbourne, such as those in the Yarra Ranges, Nillumbik, and Cardinia, have adopted these measures to help protect homes and communities. One key requirement often includes having an adequate on-site water supply for fire-fighting purposes, which is where water tanks come in.
Why Water Tanks are Crucial in BMO Areas
In bushfire-prone areas, having a dedicated water supply can be the difference between protecting your property and losing it to a fire. Here’s how water tanks play a vital role:
- Emergency Water Supply for Firefighting: During a bushfire, mains water pressure can drop or be entirely cut off. Having a large fire-ready water tank ensures that water is available for local fire services and personal use in the event of an emergency. Councils may require a minimum tank size (such as 10,000 litres or more) and fitting for fire-fighting equipment.
- Compliance with BMO Requirements: Melbourne councils enforce water storage requirements to meet the BMO guidelines, which often specify minimum water tank capacities, fittings for fire trucks, and the location of the tank to allow easy access during a fire emergency.
- Dual-Purpose Water Tanks: Many homeowners in BMO areas use dual-purpose water tanks. These systems store water for daily use, like gardening or household needs, while also maintaining a dedicated reserve for fire protection, ensuring that emergency supply is not depleted in day-to-day activities. Kingspan Water Tanks are made to measure and offer an all in one solution.
Choosing the Right Water Tank
When selecting a water tank for bushfire protection in Melbourne’s BMO areas, factors like size, material, and placement are critical:
- Steel Tanks: Highly recommended due to their fire-resistant properties, tanks made from materials like steel are less likely to be damaged in the event of a bushfire. Kingspan Water Tanks offer made to measure steel water tanks made from Bluescope steel.
- Capacity: Depending on your council’s specific BMO regulations, a water tank of at least 10,000 litres is often required. Larger properties might need more capacity.
- Accessibility: The tank should be easily accessible by fire services, with proper fittings like a 65mm CFA-compatible outlet. Speak to Kingspan Water Tanks for advice.
Working with Local Councils
Each Melbourne council under the BMO has its own set of guidelines regarding water storage for bushfire management. Homeowners and builders need to ensure that their water tank installation complies with local requirements. Always check with the council or refer to the Victorian Planning Scheme for exact specifications regarding tank size, location, and fittings.
For residents in BMO areas of Melbourne, water tanks are not just about water conservation—they’re a life-saving tool in bushfire preparation. By installing a compliant water tank, you can protect your property, support fire-fighting efforts, and meet local council regulations, ensuring your home is ready to face the threat of bushfires.