Bushfire

Smithfield residents warned to leave now as uncontrolled bushfire advances

Smithfield is under a “Watch and Act – Leave Now” alert as a fast-moving grass fire threatens homes. Authorities urge immediate evacuation due to today’s severe fire weather conditions.

2PM UPDATE: Advice – Threat is Reduced. Action: The threat of this fire has reduced however people are reminded to take care in the area. Smoke will reduce visibility in the area and there is a risk of falling trees and branches.

Smoke is moving in a north easterly direction towards Blakeview and Munno Parra area.

Smoke can affect your health. You should stay informed and be aware of the health impacts of smoke on yourself and others.

Symptoms of exposure includes shortness of breath, wheezing and coughing, burning eyes, running nose, chest tightness, chest pain and dizziness or light-headedness.

If you or anyone in your care are having difficulty breathing, seek medical attention from your local GP. If your symptoms become severe, call 000.

For updates, check the MFS website at mfs.sa.gov.au or phone the Information Hotline on 1800 362 361.

Previous update

1:30pm: Residents of Smithfield, just north of Salisbury, have been urged to evacuate immediately as a fast-moving grass fire poses a serious threat to the area. Issued at 1:18pm on Christmas Day, the MFS have escalated the warning to a “Watch and Act – Leave Now” alert due to the uncontrolled nature of the blaze.

The fire is currently advancing towards Boddington Street, Donnington Street, and Konanda Road, with fire conditions reported to be changing rapidly. The Metropolitan Fire Service strongly advises against entering this area as the incoming conditions are deemed extremely hazardous.

People located in and around the affected area are instructed to leave immediately to ensure their safety. It is crucial to ensure that all exit routes are clear before departure. Those unable to evacuate should be prepared to defend their properties as the situation could deteriorate with an unexpected change in wind direction.

In light of today’s severe weather conditions, with Adelaide recording high temperatures of 37 degrees coupled with strong winds, the Country Fire Service (CFS) has declared a Total Fire Ban across the Mount Lofty Ranges and the West Coast. Additionally, the Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe fire weather warning to highlight the current danger.

For updates, check the MFS website at mfs.sa.gov.au or phone the Information Hotline on 1800 362 361.

Homes that have been built to withstand a bushfire, and are prepared to the highest level, may provide safety.

You may lose power, water, phone and data connections.

Fire crews are responding but you should not expect a firefighter at your door.

What you should do

  • Check and follow your Bushfire Survival Plan.
  • Protect yourself from the fire’s heat – put on protective clothing.
  • Tell family or friends of your plans.

If you are leaving

  • Leave now, don’t delay.
  • Roads may become blocked or access may change. Smoke will reduce visibility.
  • Secure your pets for travel.
  • If you become stuck in your car, park away from bushes, cover yourself, get onto the floor as the windows may break from the intense heat.

If you are not leaving – prepare to defend

  • Identify a safe place inside, with more than one exit, before the fire arrives. Keep moving away from the heat of the fire.
  • Bring pets inside and restrain them.
  • Move flammable materials such as doormats, wheelie bins and outdoor furniture away from your house.
  • Close doors and windows to keep smoke out.
  • If you have sprinklers, turn them on to wet the areas.
  • If the building catches fire, go to an area already burnt. Check around you for anything burning.

Stay informed

Look and listen for information on television, radio, internet, mobile phones and by speaking with neighbours.

For emergencies call Triple Zero (000).

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