CFS urges caution ahead of predicted warmer weather
02/05/2025
The SA Country Fire Service (CFS) is urging the South Australian community to exercise increased caution throughout the weekend and into Monday as higher temperatures are forecast across much of the state.
While the official Fire Danger Season has concluded in all but one district, the potential for increased fire risk exists due to the predicted warmer conditions, soil dryness, low fuel moisture levels and high fuel loads.
The Mount Lofty Ranges district remains within the Fire Danger Season until Wednesday 14 May and residents in this district are reminded to be aware of restrictions in place.
CFS State Duty Commander, Steve Salamon, said the public should be mindful of their activities from Saturday through to Monday based on the expected weather conditions.
"The forecasted warmer temperatures, coupled with existing high levels of soil dryness, very low fuel moisture levels and substantial fuel loads, mean that if a fire were to start, it could escalate rapidly and become difficult to control," Mr Salamon said.
For those residents who are now outside of fire bans, Mr Salamon advises taking extra precautions with any outdoor activities that pose a fire risk.
"If you need to undertake activities such as burn-offs outside of the Mount Lofty Ranges, please do so in the cooler part of the day, either early morning or late in the day," he said.
"You also need to ensure a responsible person is in attendance at all times with access to water or suitable fire extinguisher, and ensure the burn is fully extinguished and cold before leaving the area unattended."
Mr Salamon further reminded landholders outside of the Fire Danger Season to be aware of and comply with their local council's Code of Practice for burning-off.
The predicted warmer weather serves as a timely reminder for all South Australians to maintain their bushfire preparedness until significant rainfall occurs across the state.
Conditions can change quickly so the public is strongly encouraged to check the Fire Danger Ratings around 5pm each day to understand the risk for the following day and to know if any Total Fire Bans have been declared.
For more information about the Fire Danger Ratings and Total Fire Bans, visit the CFS website at www.cfs.sa.gov.au
