Returning home after a bushfire

For people impacted by the bushfires it's important to stay healthy as you return home. The resources below can help in the immediate aftermath.

Factsheets

Ash from copper chrome arsenate (CCA) treated timber

Copper chrome arsenate (CCA) is a wood preservative that is fixed into timber and used to protect wood from rotting, fungi and insects, and to resist leaching. Freshly treated CCA timber can be identified by its yellow/greenish colour, which fades to grey over time.

Airborne dust and health effects

Dust is a common air pollutant, particularly in parts of the world with dry land. Periods of severe and widespread drought can increase the likelihood of airborne dust and major dust storms, particularly during the summer months.

Bushfire smoke and your health

Bushfire smoke can reduce air quality in rural and urban areas and may affect people’s health. This page provides information on bushfire smoke, how it can affect you and your family’s health, and actions that you can take to avoid or reduce potential health effects.

Bushfires and roof-harvested rainwater

Many people in Queensland do not have access to town water supplies and may rely on roof-harvested rainwater as their sole supply of drinking water. Some of these people may also live in areas that experience bushfires. The following guidance can assist residents in maintaining the quality of water stored in their rainwater tanks.

Bushfire fighting water additives and health

Water additives are chemicals that slow the spread or intensity of a fire. The are dispersed by fire trucks and sometimes dropped from aircraft.

Using alternative fuel and electricity generation safely during power outages

When power outages occur people sometimes use alternative sources of fuel or electricity generation for cooking, lighting, heating or power. Portable generators can allow some normal activities to continue; however, it is important to use them carefully.

Cleaning up a smoke affected home after a fire

If your home has been damaged by fire or smells of smoke from bushfires you should follow these instructions.

Returning home safely after a fire

Houses, sheds and other buildings or structures burnt in a bushfire can leave potential health hazards, including fallen objects, sharp objects, smouldering coals, damaged electrical wires, leaking gas and weakened walls.

Using your personal protective equipment after a fire

People returning to properties affected by fire should wear protective equipment. This equipment should include masks, disposable coveralls, sturdy foot-ware and sturdy gloves.

Asbestos hazards after a fire

Information for residents and property owners affected by bushfires, aiming to help address concerns about asbestos fibres.