Information as of Monday 23^rd Feb update

We have made significant progress over the last few days. I have received an update from the manufacturer on a new material that will withstand the extreme heat of a bushfire – approximately 1300 degrees Celsius. It has an even higher melting point and flashpoint, as well as very low thermal conductivity (better than soil).

This new material is much more expensive than a standard-grade fire-resistant composite plastic. Therefore, in order to keep costs down while still ensuring an excellent degree of safety, a modification has been made to the design so that the top 600mm of the Firepit [the lid] will be encased in the fireproof material, whilst the lower 1500mm [the base] will be made from a more standard fire-resistant material. As you can understand, this should be perfectly satisfactory as the base of the unit will be buried underground and out of harms way, and therefore will not be subjected to extreme heat or flames.

Regards

Paul Steinberg

Information as of Tuesday 17th Feb update
(email sent 6.55pm)

Hi All,

We are currently co-ordinating the production of 'Firepit' from a manufacturer who is highly specialised in composite plastic materials, and who has had experience in its fire-resistance. Subject to further research & testing, detailed information on the material specifications should be available by the end of the week.

I have received very similar questions from many people which are all in consideration. An FAQ section will be published to the website soon, but in the meantime some progress details are listed below.

A product such as 'Firepit' - a ready-made bushfire escape bunker - does not exist on the market currently. We are working expeditiously to bring the product to market, and safety is a priority. There is obviously a huge surge of interest that we have to respond to, so your patience is appreciated.

Regards,
Paul Steinberg
Carlton Hardware (www.carltonhandyman.com)
& Hardware Express (www.hardwareexpress.com.au)
ph. (+61-3) 93472755
fx.  (+61-3) 93475462

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FAQ

• Material
  Composite Plastic. When subjected to the most extreme bushfire it will not melt, and it will not ignite. Expected fire resistance is 6+ hours (sufficient time for a bushfire front to pass). Details to follow.
• Insulation
  The Firepit will mostly be buried, keeping the unit well insulated by the earth. Depending on test results, the lid may be insulated using either a double-wall system or a product such as Rockwool.
• Air
  The Firepit will not be vented. Fire, or super-heated air, passing overhead of the Firepit has the capacity to draw (suction) air out of the unit, removing the oxygen content very quickly. Therefore, there will be 2 important requirements to meet this problem: (a) The entry lid should only be closed at the last possible moment; (b) The unit should contain a small SCBA unit which can be used to ensure the air remains balanced.
• Delivery
  1st delivery expected mid-April.
• Pricing
  The expected price of $1,500 (including installation) may be premature. That price was based on a preliminary quote from the manufacturer. Details to follow.
• Council Regulations
  All council regulations differ. You may choose to make your own enquiries.
• Size
  Currently there is only 1 size being discussed. If high-demand is expected then purchasing multiple units should be considered.