Fire authorities are calling for Western Australians to prepare for the upcoming bushfire season with above normal fire potential predicted for parts of the State.
Dry autumn weather conditions and increased fuel loads mean the fire risk is high throughout the State with the greatest threat in the South West, western parts of the Great Southern, south east coastal parts of the Goldfields Midlands and parts of the Pilbara and north Midwest Gascoyne.
The warning follows the release this week of the Bushfire and Natural Hazards CRC 2017 Southern Australia Seasonal Bushfire Outlook.
Department of Fire and Emergency Services Deputy Commissioner Lloyd Bailey said the conditions could bring devastating bushfires and it was important everyone prepare themselves and their properties as early as possible.
“Our State is prone to bushfires and no matter what the risk level in your area, a fire can happen anywhere at any time, so we cannot afford to be complacent,” deputy commissioner Bailey said.
“To ensure the safety and protection of you and your family, it is important you write down your bushfire survival plan and take action to reduce the fuel loads and potential fire dangers around your home.”
Mr Bailey said preparation and planning were the key to surviving a major bushfire and he urged the community to work together to ensure they are as well prepared as possible.
“Everyone needs to play their part. Prepare your home and property whether you plan to stay and defend or leave, write down your plan, ensure friends and family are aware of your intentions, share your plan with neighbours, pay attention to environmental signs and look out for each other,” he said.
“This State has experienced disastrous bushfires that have caused significant destruction and heartbreak for the communities affected and this seasonal outlook reminds us it is likely to happen again.”
Residents and people travelling through risk areas over the bushfire period are advised to monitor and respond to bushfire advice and warnings.
For more information about preparing your family and home, including instructions on preparing a bushfire survival plan, visit: www.emergency.wa.gov.au/prepare
