Community urged to Burn SMART now ahead of summer

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) is urging the community to safely undertake planned burns now, while conditions are mild, ahead of a potentially challenging southern bushfire season. 

Last season was longer and more intense than recent years with volunteer and career firefighters responding to 5088 bushfires between October 2023 and May 2024 – 1000 more than the same period the previous season.

The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast warmer than usual temperatures throughout most of Western Australia during spring.  Coupled with an already dry landscape across southern WA, this means bushfires that start ahead of summer have the potential to escalate quickly.

Planned burns on private property can significantly reduce fuel loads and the potential for major damage during bushfire season but it is crucial they are conducted safely so they do not escalate and damage the environment or put life and property at risk.

Burn SMART resources, available on the DFES website and YouTube channel, help simplify the process of developing a burn plan for your property, explain what fuel and weather conditions mean and outline the local requirements.

Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Darren Klemm AFSM said the free Burn SMART resources included a planned-burn guide and checklist to help landowners prepare.

“Bushfires are inevitable in Western Australia but planned burns can substantially reduce the intensity and speed. A well-planned burn could save your home, it’s that simple,” he said.

“It is crucial that everyone plays their part to reduce bushfire risk and prepares their property, especially as the frequency and severity of these incidents increase.

“Western Australians are also encouraged to register their planned burns with DFES to reduce the number of false alarm Triple Zero calls made to emergency services.

“If you light a fire to burn-off you own it. Registering a planned burn is important and may avoid an unnecessary emergency response from career and volunteer firefighters.”

When planning a burn, property owners need to assess weather conditions and obtain advice from their local government about possible burning restrictions. 

To view and download Burn SMART resources visit dfes.wa.gov.au/plannedburning.