Only three in five people (58 per cent) say they would know what to do if a bushfire threatened their home, while one in 10 people (13 per cent) do not have any insurance for their home or contents.

GIO’s research also found: 

* Two in five families (38 per cent) do not have a bushfire survival plan.

* One in five families (21 per cent) had not discussed the dangers of fire with their children. 

* One in 10 (14 per cent) have failed to prune tree branches growing near their home.

* One in five homes (22 per cent) aren’t taking care of overflowing gutters.

As well as preparing the home and having a survival plan, it is important people are prepared from an insurance perspective.

Should the worst happen, a bit of preparation can help consumers get their claims processed by their insurer as quickly as possible. 

It’s really important that people check their level of insurance cover is appropriate. They also need to be clear on what they own – have they made any recent purchases or received any large Christmas gifts, and are these on their policy?

Policy details and paperwork, and digital photos of what you own, can really help come claim time, and are easily added to the collection of vital documents that should be part of everyone’s preparations. Many people scan and email these documents to themselves, or store copies online or at a relative’s place.

We’re also encouraging people to keep a lookout for elderly or less-able neighbours who may require assistance in preparing their homes and further bolster fire precautions in and around your neighbourhood.