Bushfire warning for Western Australia this summer

The Outlook, developed by the Bushfire and Natural Hazards Cooperative Research Centre, predicts that high fuel loads will bring above average bushfire risk to the South West, Western Gascoyne, Pilbara and Eucla regions over the summer.

DFES Deputy Commissioner Steve Fewster said the bushfire outlook was a warning for individuals, families and businesses to get prepared.

“The catastrophic devastation caused by bushfires last summer is a stark reminder of the dangers of living in Western Australia,” Deputy Commissioner Fewster said.

“The Esperance and Yarloop communities are recovering from the tragic bushfires that impacted them last summer.

“The upcoming season has the potential to bring devastating and dangerous bushfires.

“Unfortunately, we can’t predict where the next bushfire will occur, and I encourage everyone to assume that this year a bushfire will occur near them, and make themselves familiar with the bushfire safety information available.

“We all need to play our part to safeguard ourselves, our families and property - you can start preparing now by creating a bushfire survival plan and making plans to reduce fuel loads surrounding your property.

“Last season firefighters responded to nearly 5,000 bushfires and it only takes one of these to change your life forever.

“DFES staff and volunteers, alongside Parks and Wildlife, Western Power, Local Governments and their volunteer firefighters are working hard to prepare for the season ahead – but we need everyone to play their part to be bushfire ready.”

For more information about preparing for bushfires search ‘Are You Bushfire Ready’.

For more information about the Southern Australia Seasonal Bushfire Outlook visit www.bnhcrc.com.au