A bushfire watch and act alert has been issued for the northern parts of Muchea in the Shire of Chittering.
There is a possible threat to lives and homes as a fire is approaching in the area near Brand Highway between Timaru Road and Bore Road
The fire started near Brand Highway in Muchea about 12pm on Thursday.
The fire is out of control and unpredictable, and is moving fast in various directions.
Firefighters are on the scene, actively fighting the fire and aerial support has been sent to assist ground crews.
WHAT TO DO:
- If you are not prepared or you plan to leave, leave now if the way is clear.
- If you are well prepared and plan to actively defend your home, make final preparations now.
- If you plan to stay and actively defend, do not rely on mains water pressure as it may be affected. You need to have access to an independent water supply, and start patrolling your property to put out spot fires.
- At all times close all doors and windows and turn off evaporative air conditioners, but keep water running through the system if possible.
- If you are not at home, do not try to return as conditions in the area could be very dangerous.
SAFEST ROUTE:
If you live in the affected area, leave by travelling north or south along Brand Highway which remains open for those choosing to leave.
ROAD CLOSURES AND CONDITIONS:
Avoid the area and be aware of fire and emergency services personnel working on site.
A number of roads have been closed including:
- Brand Highway between Timaru Road and Bore Road
Motorists are asked to avoid the area, reduce speed and drive carefully due to smoke.
Road information may also be available from Main Roads WA by calling 138 138 or visiting travelmap.mainroads.wa.gov.au or by contacting the Shire of Chittering.
DRONES AND AERIAL SUPPORT:
Never fly a drone, model aircraft or multirotor near bushfires. Doing so poses a major safety risk to firefighting personnel in the air and on the ground, and forces aircraft to be grounded or redirected, hindering firefighting efforts.
The Shire of Chittering is managing the fire.
