Update - Pierces Creek Bush/Grass fire - ADVICE

Overnight more than 10 crews mopped up hot spots identified during on-ground patrols and helicopter surveillance, air crews using thermal imaging cameras (known as a FLIR run). Favourable conditions eased fire behaviour and helped firefighters consolidate containment lines. Dozers worked on removing hazardous trees and strengthening tracks across the fireground. The ACT Emergency Services Agency advises the community that the current alert level for this fire remains ADVICE. This means that while there is still a fire, there is no immediate danger to the community. The fire is now being controlled and remains at 204 hectares. The fire is 7km away from the nearest suburb (Kambah). A map of the fire is available at www.esa.act.gov.au. Today, more than 13 ACT Rural Fire Service crews will continue work from overnight, particularly in areas of steep terrain, supported by two Remote Area Firefighting Teams (RAFT). Firefighters will be assisted by seven helicopters, three dozers and an excavator. The Fire Danger Rating will reach VERY HIGH today with westerly winds which are expected to ease this evening. The Bureau of Meterology forecasts mild conditions on the fireground which will assist efforts to contain the fire and strengthen containment lines. Westerly winds will continue to drift smoke from the Pierces Creek fire over the ACT today and in coming days. People with asthma, other chronic respiratory and/or chronic cardiac diseases should not perform vigorous exercise and should stay inside if affected by the dust or smoke. People with asthma in particular should continue their medication and consult their general practitioner if they have any difficulties. The following road closures remain in place for tonight, tomorrow and until advised otherwise: Paddys River Road remains closed from the Cotter Road picnic area (near Brindabella Road) and Tidbinbilla Road remains closed at Corin Dam Road. Kambah Pool Road, from Kambah Pool to Mount Vernon Drive, remains closed. The following areas will remain closed and inaccessible today and until advised otherwise: o Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve o Kambah Pool o Camp Cottermouth o Bullen Range Nature Reserve o Pierces Creek forest The community is encouraged to regularly check www.esa.act.gov.au for updates.