With the death toll now at 181 and expecting to surpass 300, the 2009 Victorian bushfires has become the deadliest natural disaster in Australia's history. Over 1,000 houses have now been destroyed, with fears the worst is still yet to come.

I myself reside in the state of Victoria, however I'm fortunate to be away from any major fires. However, my university residence is pretty close to one of the fire's (10 minute drive), but there's little chance for the fire to reach that way. I know a few people who have had their house burnt down, and I was pretty shocked and saddened to hear about Brian Naylor's death (veteran newsreader in Australia that I used to love as a kid).

Has it been frequent news for those overseas? What would you do if a bushfire was rapidly coming towards you and your home?