Extreme fire danger weather predicted for the long weekend
29/09/2023
The SA Country Fire Service (CFS) is urging South Australians to be vigilant this long weekend with the West Coast experiencing the first fire ban for the season on Saturday, and fire bans are also predicted for Monday.
To support the operations of our 13,500 firefighters this weekend will have aircraft available on Monday based out of Port Pirie.
This weekend is a timely reminder of the predicted increased fire risk for the upcoming bushfire season and the need for South Australians to stay on top of preparing their bushfire survival plans and properties.
CFS Deputy State Controller Fire and Hazmat, Brenton Hastie, said the public should be aware of weather conditions and mindful of their activities over the long weekend.
"With many South Australians planning to take advantage of the long weekend, we urge anyone travelling to know their risk by checking the fire danger ratings in the district they are travelling in or through and to stay alert and informed in case a bushfire starts."
"If a BBQ or Campfire was on the plans for the weekend, ensure you check the fire bans first, that the fire is constantly monitored and is extinguished using water when you're finished."
"Although the warmer weather predicted for this weekend makes it not the best time to undertake preparation activities, you can still update or create your bushfire survival plan and move flammable items from under your veranda so that if a fire starts, items close to your house don't catch fire."
Minister for Emergency Services Joe Szakacs urged South Australians to be cautious with hot and windy conditions forecast.
"This is a timely reminder that the risk of fire isn't just limited to the fire danger season," Minister Szakacs said.
"South Australians should have a bushfire survival plan in place and be ready to act in the event of a fire.
"If you do not have one, you should create one now, and if you do have one you should make sure it's up to date to keep you and your family safe," he said.
For more information about the fire danger ratings and total fire bans, visit the CFS website at www.cfs.sa.gov.au
