As South Australia heads into spring, predicted higher temperatures and dry conditions are raising concerns about an increased risk of bushfires across the state. The Emergency Management Committee of State Cabinet met with representatives from Emergency Services, the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), and the Country Fire Service (CFS) to discuss the growing threat.
Forecasts show that below-average rainfall will likely continue, with a high chance of well above-average temperatures throughout SA. The CFS has identified the far west, southeast, and mid-west regions as areas of particular concern for potential fire activity.
Dry conditions in forest and scrub areas of the mid-north could increase the risk of fires from the Southern Flinders Ranges to the Northern Mount Lofty Ranges. All landscapes are expected to cure faster than usual this spring, further increasing the fire risk.
Despite lower-than-average fire activity in recent years, the government is keen to ensure that landowners and residents remain alert and prepared for the upcoming bushfire season. Around one-third of South Australians living in bushfire risk areas mistakenly believe they are not at risk, while only half of travellers and transient workers regularly check the Fire Danger Rating for the regions they are in.
The CFS is set to launch its annual ‘Be Bushfire Ready’ campaign at the end of this month, which aims to educate and support communities in staying safe during the bushfire season, specifically targeting those living, working, and travelling through at-risk areas. The campaign will use digital, broadcast, print, and social media to reach a broad audience.
“Staying safe from bushfire is a shared responsibility between the CFS and the South Australian community,” CFS Chief Officer Brett Loughlin said.
“With a forecasted hot and dry summer, it’s really important for people to prepare their properties and make or review their Bushfire Survival Plans for the upcoming Fire Danger Season.
“Now is the time for you and your family to review or create a Bushfire Survival Plan, which includes the care and transport of pets and livestock before, during and after a fire.”
The campaign will focus on increasing awareness of Fire Danger Ratings and encouraging the use of the CFS website and the Alert SA app to stay informed.
Fire danger season dates for regions across South Australia will be established in the coming weeks. Residents are urged to stay alert and prepare their properties as the bushfire season approaches.
More News
