We all know that garden landscaping can give outdoor areas a much needed boost in feel and functionality, however not many households realise the safety benefits.

Research by GIO Australia has shown that one in seven homeowners believe that their property is a potential fire risk.

GIO spokesperson Duncan Bone says: "With the weather wavering between winter and spring, now is the perfect time to do a proper spring clean and kick off any of those bigger home maintenance jobs that have been hanging around.

"A small investment in time and energy now can save both your home and your family should a fire strike."

Bone cites home maintenance as a key strategy to prevent fire risks, particularly leading up to fire season.

Improvements to the garden that reduce fire hazards generally focus on loose and dry foliage - including leaf build-up in gutters and the removal of dead tree branches.

You may also wish to make some larger changes - such as installing gutter guards and removing trees or bushes that bring flammable material closer to the home.

Bone says: "While I can safely say I haven't met many people who enjoy cleaning the gutters, it is simple precautions like this that can really reduce the risk of house fires."