A BUSHFIRE watch and act is in place for people in the area bounded by Indian Ocean Dr, Croot Pl across to Chitna Rd, Military Rd and Wabling Rd in parts of Neergabby, Woodridge and Wilbinga.
At 1.22pm the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) said there was a possible threat to lives and homes as the fire was approaching in the area and conditions were changing.
People on Chitna Rd can leave west to Indian Ocean Dr or east to Military Rd and head in a northerly direction if it is safe to do so.
The fire started near the intersection of Chitna Rd in Neergabby.
The bushfire is moving fast in a south westerly direction and is out of control and unpredictable.
A bushfire advice is in place for people in the area bounded by Indian Ocean Dr, Gingin Brook Rd, Military Rd and north of Chitna Rd and Croot Pl in parts of Neergabby and Woodridge.
What to do:
- If you are not prepared or you plan to leave, leave now if the way is clear.
- If you are well prepared and plan to actively defend your home, make final preparations now.
- If you plan to stay and actively defend, do not rely on mains water pressure as it may be affected. You need to have access to an independent water supply, and start patrolling your property to put out spot fires.
- Keep doors and windows closed and turn off evaporative air conditioners, but keep water running through the system if possible.
- If you are not at home, do not try to return as conditions in the area could be very dangerous.
If driving
- Be extremely careful when driving through the area.
- Turn your headlights on and drive slowly.
- Watch for emergency services personnel and follow their directions.
- If you cannot see clearly, pull over, keep your headlights and hazard lights on, and wait until the smoke clears.
- If you have a respiratory condition and you have been affected by smoke you should contact your local doctor or call Health Direct on 1800 022 222.
Covid-19
If you are told to leave in an emergency, don’t stay at home even if you have Covid-19 or Covid-like symptoms.
You may stay at a friend or relative’s house, an evacuation centre or other suitable accommodation.
If you have Covid-19 or symptoms of Covid-19, take these steps to prevent spreading the illness if you can:
- wear a mask around other people
- wash your hands regularly
- stay and sleep in a separate room
- maintain physical distancing.
Bushfire behaviour:
- The bushfire is moving fast in a south westerly direction.
- It is out of control and unpredictable.
Safest route:
People on Chitna Rd can leave west to Indian Ocean Dr or east to Military Rd and head in a northerly direction if it is safe to do so..
Road closures and conditions:
Some roads may be closed.
Motorists are asked to avoid the area, reduce speed and drive carefully due to smoke. Road information may also be available from Main Roads WA by visiting the Main Roads Travel Map, calling 138 138 or by contacting your Local Government Authority.
Animal welfare
Owners or carers of livestock, pets and companion animals should activate their own animal welfare plan. During a bushfire take advice from Local Government Authorities to protect the lives of your animals while keeping yourself safe.
For more information on actions to take for each bushfire warning level, please see the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development website.
What firefighters are doing:
- Firefighters are on the scene, actively fighting the fire.
- Aerial support has been sent to assist ground crews.
Extra information:
- The fire was reported at 11:40 AM on 4 February 2023.
- Shire of Gingin is managing the fire.
Keep up to date:
Visit Emergency WA, call 13 DFES (13 3337), follow DFES on Twitter, Facebook, listen to ABC Local Radio, 6PR, or news bulletins.
During a power outage, your home phone, computer or other electronic devices connected to the NBN will not work. Include a battery powered radio in your emergency kit.
