The 2019 bushfire season has officially opened with the Minister for Emergency Services, Mick Gentleman declaring 1 October the opening day.
Mr Gentleman said the season will run until 31 March 2020 unless conditions warrant an extension.
“This bushfire season comes after the ACT experienced its driest winter since 1982,” Mr Gentleman said.
“Following less than average rain fall for two years, the Territory is faced with hotter and drier conditions as we head into summer.”
He said now was the best time for Canberrans to prepare for the bushfire season.
Mr Gentleman said that before conducting hazard reduction burns people who live in the rural areas outside Canberra now need to contact the ACT Rural Fire Service (ACTRFS) for a permit.
“People living in Bushfire Prone Areas should download a Bushfire Survival Plan from the Emergency Services Agency (ESA) website, fill it in and have a discussion with their family about what they will do in the event of a fire.”
Mr Gentleman said Canberrans should also make sure they understood Fire Danger Rating levels which will help them make decisions when travelling around the Territory.
Information on preparing for the bushfire season can be accessed on the Emergency Service website at this PS News link.
