Elevated bushfire risk prompts warning, reminder to prepare
Western Australians are being urged to be
bushfire-ready this season, with an above-normal fire potential predicted for
parts of the State.
South western parts of Western Australia
experienced their driest start to the year, and coupled with dry autumn conditions
and increased fuel loads in the Pilbara, the fire risk is high across the
State, according to the 2019 Australia Seasonal Bushfire Outlook released
today.
Warmer and drier than average conditions are
predicted through to October, adding to the bushfire threat, which is highest
in parts of the Swan Coastal Plain; the Avon Wheatbelt; forest areas of the
South West Land Division and Esperance.
Higher fuel loads generated from heavy rains
brought in by Tropical Cyclone Veronica in March have also put the Pilbara in a
higher-risk category.
Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Darren
Klemm AFSM said everyone – regardless of the risk level in their area – should
prepare themselves and their properties as early as possible.
"WA is a bushfire-prone State and this
outlook reminds us that we can’t afford to be complacent,” Commissioner Klemm
said.
“Despite rain being forecast in the
near-future, the outlook in the lead-up to bushfire season is for drier than
average conditions.
“Have a 5-minute Fire Chat with your family and
housemates about what you will do if a bushfire threatens your property – you
need to leave early for a safer place or actively defend your property if it’s
prepared to the highest degree.
“Preparation and planning are the key to surviving
a major bushfire – take the time now to reduce fuel loads and potential fire
dangers around your home.”
Residents and people travelling through
bushfire risk areas can keep update with bushfire warnings by visiting www.emergency.wa.gov.au
For more information about how to prepare for
bushfires visit dfes.wa.gov.au/firechat