South Australians in the West Coast and Mount Lofty Ranges regions will need to rethink their Christmas cooking plans this year, as Total Fire Bans have been declared for December 25th 2024. With extreme fire danger ratings in place for those regions, the Country Fire Service (CFS) has advised against using certain types of barbecues and engaging in any at-risk activities that could spark a fire.
Regions Affected and Restrictions
The Total Fire Ban applies to the West Coast and Mount Lofty Ranges districts, both classified under “Extreme” fire danger ratings. The bans are in effect from midnight tonight to midnight on Christmas Day. Hazardous fire weather conditions are forecast, prompting authorities to stress the importance of adhering to fire safety rules and implementing personal Bushfire Survival Plans.
Here’s a list of the areas that fall under the Mount Lofty Ranges zone:
• Adelaide Hills
• Alexandrina
• Barossa
• Burnside
• Campbelltown
• Gawler
• Mitcham
• Mount Barker
• Onkaparinga
• Playford
• Salisbury
• Tea Tree Gully
• Victor Harbor
• Yankalilla
Under these bans:
- Solid fuel kettle barbecues (using wood, charcoal, or heat beads) are prohibited unless a Schedule 10 Permit is obtained from local councils. Permits are typically only issued for emergencies.
- Gas-fired kettle barbecues can be used if they meet strict conditions, including a 4-metre clearance from flammable vegetation and the presence of fire control measures.
- Gas or electric barbecues are permitted within 15 metres of homes, businesses, or coastal foreshores, provided the same safety precautions are followed.
These rules aim to reduce fire risks as South Australia braces for scorching weather.
Extreme Fire Weather Ahead
The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has issued a Severe Weather Update for South Australia, with hot, dry, and windy conditions driving extreme fire dangers across parts of the state. BOM spokesperson Dean emphasised the critical nature of these conditions, particularly for Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
“ We are expecting extreme fire dangers through southern parts of South Australia, including the Mount Lofty Ranges,” Dean said. “Conditions will be right for fires to become uncontrollable and uncontainable. A cooler change will move in Thursday night, but ahead of that, winds will ramp up, creating very dangerous fire conditions.”
Adelaide residents can anticipate a shift late Boxing Day morning as the cooler change sweeps through. This change will bring relief but could also complicate firefighting efforts near ongoing fires.
Recent Fire Activity in Onkaparinga Hills
The Total Fire Ban declaration comes on the heels of a bushfire in Onkaparinga Hills, near Woodcroft in the southern Mount Lofty Ranges. Over 50 CFS volunteers, 15 fire trucks, and multiple aircraft have been working tirelessly to contain the fire. The blaze, which sparked yesterday, has been controlled but remains under active monitoring.
Fire crews are focusing on the perimeter near Education Road, with some areas closed to non-residents. The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Motorists are urged to avoid the area, as smoke may reduce visibility and pose safety risks.
Stay Safe and Informed
With dangerous fire weather looming, South Australians are encouraged to stay informed through official CFS channels and weather updates. Whether you’re planning a festive barbecue or travelling, be mindful of restrictions and prioritise safety.
This Christmas, let’s all do our part to ensure the holiday season remains safe and fire-free. For more information on Total Fire Bans and fire safety, visit the CFS website or tune in to local emergency broadcasts.
Find out more about what you can and can’t do during a total fire ban on the CFS website here.
What should you do
If you don’t have a plan to ensure your survival, leaving early before a fire starts is your safest option.
In making your plan, you should be aware that in high fire danger conditions, essential services including mains-fed electricity and water supply may not be available due to the prevailing weather conditions.
Landowners are asked to adhere to local harvest codes of practice which are available from your local council.
Landowners are also asked to ensure that any burn-off activities conducted today are fully extinguished before midnight tonight.
Agencies are advised to activate their Total Fire Ban procedures in preparation for these predicted fire weather conditions
Stay informed
CFS website cfs.sa.gov.au
Information Hotline 1800 362 361
For hearing or speech impaired users, phone 1300 555 727 then ask for 1800 362 361
For teletype service TTY 133 677 then ask for 1800 362 361
CFS on Facebook or XAlert SA Mobile App
On local ABC radio, FIVEaa, or one of the other Emergency Broadcast Partners
For emergencies call Triple Zero (000).
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