Storm and bushfire season begins in the ACT

1 October 2024 marks the start of the 2024-25 storm and bushfire season in the ACT.

As the likelihood of storms and bushfires increases across the territory, the ACT Emergency Services Agency (ESA) is urging the community to do their part to Be Emergency Ready.

In the ACT this season the biggest risks we face are grassfires and storms, which can be very unpredictable. It is important that every Canberran takes steps to prepare for these severe weather events.

The start of the season will also see changes to how we receive alerts and warnings in the ACT with the Australian Warnings System (AWS) being introduced for Flood and Extreme Heat.

For more information on how to be Emergency Ready and changes to AWS visit www.esa.act.gov.au
 

Quotes attributable to ESA Commissioner, Wayne Phillips

“The ESA has done some hard work to prepare the community for bushfire and storm season, however to be completely prepared we need the assistance of the Canberra community. That is why I encourage people to take initiative to learn more about preparing their homes and themselves for all emergencies, update or create a survival plan and learn about our changes to alerts and warnings.

“The Australian Warning System, or AWS, is a national approach to warnings and public information during emergencies. No matter where you are you will see the same warning levels and icons across the nation. As of today, AWS will be seen in alerts and warnings in the ACT for flood and heatwaves, having already been in place for bushfire since 2021.”

“Alerts will display warning information with three levels of threat: Advice, Watch & Act and Emergency Warning. Warnings will also contain information specific to the situation, the expected impact on communities, and advice on what you should do to stay safe. We hope that with these changes our community is better informed and know the steps to take in an emergency.”
 

Quotes attributable to ACT Rural Fire Service (ACTRFS) Chief Officer, Rohan Scott

“Although the ACT is expected to have an average fire season, we’re likely to see grass fires. With expected rain causing growth a grass fire can happen anytime and anywhere, so it is vital that our community is informed and prepared if one does occur.”

“There are simple ways that you can prepare your home for a bush or grass fire including cleaning your gutters of leaves and debris, mowing your lawn and creating a home emergency survival kit.”

“I would also like to use this opportunity to thank our volunteers for all the fantastic work they have undertaken to help us prepare for the season. Over the coming months we know that many of them will be busy, giving up to time with family and friends to help the community and we want them to know their hard work does not go unnoticed.”
 

Quotes attributable to ACT State Emergency Service (ACTSES) A/g Chief Officer, Steve Forbes

“I am proud of the work that our ACTSES volunteers have completed to prepare for storm season. They have done a great job helping prepare our equipment, undertaking training and educating the community on how they can prepare for the season.

“We encourage the community to secure loose items around the yard, trim overhanging trees, and ensure they know where to find information and what actions they can take when a storm hits.”

“One of the key things that we are encouraging our community to be aware of this year is to know when to call the ACTSES on 132 500. This number is the best number to contact during storm and flood related emergencies. If safe and practical to do so, our volunteers undertake temporary repairs to homes to make it safe until the homeowner can get repairs completed.”
 

Quotes attributable to ACT Parks and Conservation Service A/g Executive Branch Manager, Michaela Watts

“We love seeing Canberrans out enjoying our parks and reserves and we’re fortunate we live so close to beautiful nature and waterways. However, it’s important to remember these are natural spaces which can be unpredictable and warmer weather carries increased risks.”

“A couple of things you can do to make sure you stay safe are, explore with a friend, and tell someone when you will be back, be prepared with the right equipment such as footwear, a personal locator beacon and a map, avoid walking in the heat of the day and carry enough water to stay hydrated, as well as a first aid kit in the event of an emergency.”

“ACT waterways and much of our parks and reserves are unsupervised, so it’s important you know your fitness level and the conditions before you head out. Our waterways can often be unpredictable with hidden or submerged hazards or fast flowing water. When swimming or just exploring our parks and reserves, pay attention to your surroundings including sudden weather changes, fallen hazards and active wildlife like snakes and never let your children swim unsupervised.

Statement ends

Media contact:
ESA Media      T (02) 6207 8564  E ESAMedia@act.gov.au