Be Bushfire Ready

I LIVE CLOSE TO GRASSLAND

What to expect:

• Grass fires can start and spread easily and quickly, not only destroying homes but also property and livelihoods
• Grass fires are very hot and can produce huge amounts of heat
• As grass dries out or cures, it can catch fire more easily
• Fires in tall grass will have tall flames that may burn across trails, roads or fire breaks
• Grass fires can move much faster than a bush fire, often catching people off guard

I LIVE IN AN AREA WHERE THE BUSH OR GRASSLANDS MEET BUILT-UP AREAS

What to expect:

• Fires can spread quickly from parks and reserves, threatening your home, fences or gardens
• Thick smoke from the fire might make it difficult to see or breathe
• Burning embers can travel through the air, setting fire to properties a significant distance away from the burn

THINGS WHICH AFFECT THE WAY A FIRE BURNS

• Slope – a fire travelling uphill will travel faster becoming more intense and more dangerous.
• Vegetation – smaller items such as twigs, branches and leaves are known as 'fine fuels'. These can burn very easily. Burning bark, twigs and leaves can also be blown in the wind.
• Weather – when it's hot, dry and windy, fires can be more intense and unpredictable. Strong winds can send a fire in different directions and cause burning embers to be blown through the air.

WHAT IS THE BUSHFIRE WARNING SYSTEM?

DFES WA introduced the first phase of AWS changes to bushfire in September 2021 when warning colours and icons were updated to reflect the AWS framework.

As of 15 July 2024, bushfire warnings will now also include an action statement giving the community a clear understanding of what to do to stay safe.

The All Clear level will no longer be used, instead an Advice - Threat is reduced will be issued.

For more information visit dfes.wa.gov.au

BE PREPARED: DEPARTMENT OF FIRE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES BUSHFIRE TOOLKIT

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services has a wide range of information available to keep the community informed of bushfire risks.

The Bushfire Preparation Toolkit is an essential guide with information about knowing your fire risk; preparing your property; fire breaks; protective clothing; sheltering in your home and having a fire plan. You can access the toolkit below.