Media Release
10 February, 2011
High winds for weekend – fire safety advice
City of Armadale residents should be aware that extremely windy conditions are forecast for this weekend and safety precautions must be taken.
The City’s Chief Bushfire Control Officer, Brian Watkins, warned that strong easterly winds - similar to those which fanned Sunday’s devastating hills bushfire – would create dangerous conditions again.
Mr Watkins said he has received advice that a Total Fire Ban for the Perth Hills would be declared for Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
“Under no circumstances should people use welding, grinding or cutting equipment in the open air,” Mr Watkins said.
“No solid fuel barbecues or pizza ovens should be lit in the open air.
“Indeed no-one should light a fire that is likely to emit any sparks or embers.
“Whether there is a Total Fire Ban in place or not, I would ask residents to adhere to this advice, in the interests of people’s safety and that of their homes and properties.”
Mr Watkins urged hills residents and land owners to continue taking fire safety precautions such as clearing leaves out of gutters and roof valleys and cutting long grass.
“Make sure your firebreak is clear, rake twigs and leaf littler, don’t have timber and branches hard up against the house and store spare gas bottles in a shed rather than the house,” he said.
“Have your bushfire survival plan and kit ready to put into immediate action.
“Importantly, stay alert and monitor your surroundings for signs of a fire.”
Mr Watkins warned that the fire which destroyed 72 homes and damaged 39 others in Kelmscott and Roleystone was still smouldering in places and fire fighters would be monitoring the area closely.
For further advice on how to protect your home contact the City of Armadale Ranger Services on 9399 0111 or visit the FESA (Fire and Emergency Services Authority) website www.fesa.wa.gov.au
ENDS…
Media Contact: Maria Passalacqua
Acting Communications Manager
Phone: (08) 9399 0634
Mobile: 0407 083 997
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Web site: www.armadale.wa.gov.au