2021-22 bushfire season begins 1 November 2021

The 2021-22 bushfire season starts today, 1 November, a month later than usual.

Recent rainfall meant the ACT is expecting normal fire potential in grasslands, and below-normal fire potential in forested areas. Bushfire risk should remain low until the end of the year; however, increased vegetation growth means the risk of fast-moving grass fires is heightened, particularly during the warmer months of January and February. Grass fires often develop quickly and can move up to three times faster than a bushfire in forest land.

The ACT Rural Fire Service (ACTRFS) has been proactively preparing in the offseason by providing ongoing skill and maintenance training as well as monitoring areas for heightened risk. The community should be confident knowing our firefighting agencies within the territory are prepared for the approaching season.

In partnership with The Minderoo Foundation, Optus, and the Australian National University the ACT Rural Fire service is trailing several fire detection cameras located strategically on fire towers surrounding the ACT for a second year. The cameras are being desgned to improve detection times, allowing for a quicker response to bushfires.

Emergencies can happen quickly and without warning. Canberran’s are urged to take the time to complete or update your Survival Plan. If you and your home are well prepared, you stand a better chance of surviving an emergency. When completing or updating your survival plan, take into account the current COVID-19 restrictions. Have a backup plan if your movement is limited or if you are in isolation.

When you do your part, you help us do ours. Download a free Survival Plan at the ACT Emergency Services Agency website.