Is there a risk that bushfires as intense and destructive as those that have ravaged Los Angeles could bear down on an Australian city?

The head of Australia’s largest firefighting service says yes, Sydney, with its national parks so close to homes, could see similar devastation. 

Today, the New South Wales Rural Fire Service Commissioner Rob Rogers, who will leave the service at the end of this fire season, on how firefighters have responded to the threat in LA and how we need to prepare. 

Commissioner Rogers discusses the challenges faced by firefighters in LA, including the impact of strong winds and drought conditions. 

He highlights the importance of timely warnings and the role of AI in improving fire response. 

As he prepares to retire, Rogers reflects on the evolving nature of fire seasons and the critical role of volunteers in firefighting efforts.

Featured: 

Rob Rogers, Commissioner of the New South Wales Rural Fire Service

Key Topics:

• Bushfire risk in Australian cities
• Firefighting strategies in Los Angeles
• Impact of drought and strong winds on fires
• Role of AI in fire management
• Global sharing of firefighting resources
• Fire seasons
• Volunteer firefighters
• Future of firefighting