ESA Incident Map Icons

The ESA incident map on our website is the key place for journalists to find out about what incidents we are responding to across the ACT.

Below is a list of icons that you may see on the map and explanations on what they mean. If you call our media line we are happy to share further details that may affect the ACT community.

Ambulance Response This icon indicates an ambulance-only incident. These incidents usually pose no threat to the wider community.

Car Fire This icon appears when there is a vehicle fire. Car fires can cause road closures and may affect people with respiratory conditions.

Motor Vehicle Incident This icon will appear when emergency services are responding to a motor vehicle incident. These incidents can have a community impact, such as traffic delays or road closures.

Storm Damage These icons represent requests for assistance received after a storm or flood. They are displayed for community awareness, helping people avoid affected areas and potential hazards.

Structure fire This icon appears when emergency services are responding to a fire in a house or building. We share these incidents for community awareness, as they may result in road closures, or have impacts on those with respiratory conditions. The community is advised to avoid the area while crews are on scene.

Australian Warning System (AWS)

In addition to the above, you may also see AWS icons for heatwaves, HAZMAT incidents, severe weather, floods or bushfires. The AWS is a nationally consistent method of displaying warning information with three levels of threat. It’s important for community safety that these symbols and calls to action are not manipulated in any way.

Advice (Yellow) This icon indicates an incident has started. There is no immediate danger and the community should stay up to date in case the situation changes.

Watch & Act (Orange) This icon appears when there is a heightened level of threat. Conditions are changing and the community needs to start taking action to protect themselves and their family.

Emergency Warning (Red) An Emergency is the highest level of warning. The community may be in danger and needs to act immediately.

You can find more information on the Australian Warning System here.