Bushfire season to commence on Monday

The ACT Emergency Services Agency Commissioner, Mr Mark Crosweller, has asked Canberran’s to PREPARE. ACT. SURVIVE. with the ACT Bushfire season officially commencing on Monday 1 October 2012 until 31 March 2013 unless conditions warrant an extension.

“Once again this season, the potential for grass fire risk is high,” Commissioner Mark Crosweller said.

“The past two years have seen above average rainfall which has produced prolific grass growth around the region. Rainfall, temperature and wind will determine how vulnerable the landscape will be to fire this summer,” he said.

“The ACT Rural Fire Service and the Territory and Municipal Services Directorate have been undertaking prescribed burns in preparation for the bushfire season and have been surprised at how well the vegetation is burning already. Although there are some areas of green around Canberra, don’t underestimate the risks. If you think it won’t burn, think again. In the grass, fire moves fast and this can cause a significant risk.

“Ensuring everyone has a Bushfire Survival Plan is a vital step to PREPARE. ACT. SURVIVE. It is too late to start making decisions when a fire has started and threatens, so take the time to discuss it now.

Bushfire season to commence on Monday [PDF 139 KB]