Northern communities urged to prepare for bushfire risks

Communities in the Pilbara and Kimberley are urged to prepare for bushfires after heavy rainfall and seasonal conditions delayed the onset of the northern fire season.  

Normal fire conditions are expected across northern Western Australia for the next month but current forecasts suggest the fire risk may climb from September.  

The bushfire season in northern WA can begin as early as June but the La Niña weather event that developed in September last year delivered the region’s wettest Wet Season since 2016-17.

Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Darren Klemm AFSM said that as the soil continues to dry and temperatures rise it was important for the community to develop a bushfire plan. 

“Having a bushfire plan will help you take action and avoid making last-minute decisions that could prove deadly during a bushfire,” Commissioner Klemm said. 

“All it takes is for one hot and windy day for a bushfire to rapidly escalate and threaten life and property. 

“Tourists heading to northern WA also need to be aware that the conditions are very different to what the southern half of the State is experiencing – it’s essential travellers stay aware of their surroundings and know what to do during a bushfire.

“Search ‘My Bushfire Plan’ online or download the companion app to create a free plan today.”

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services works with relevant stakeholders to carry out mitigation works in the regions, including prescribed burning and creating low-fuel areas, to protect critical areas or infrastructure from the impact of bushfires. 

To find out how to prepare for a bushfire visit mybushfireplan.wa.gov.au and for up to date information on current alerts and warnings visit emergency.wa.gov.au

Media Contact: DFES Media and Corporate Communications 9395 9543.