Released 20/01/2020 - Joint media release
The State of Alert in the ACT has today been amended to only apply to rural and remote areas of the ACT and no longer applies to urban and residential areas of Canberra.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services Mick Gentleman made the decision based on improvements in weather conditions in the region, including the recent rainfall, and the significant progress containing fires burning close to the ACT.
Quote attributable to Chief Minister Andrew Barr
“The State of Alert change and expected reduction in smoke haze means most Canberra residents and employers can breathe a little easier and move more towards business as usual.”
“We will continue to assess the situation and remain ready to change the State of Alert or move into a State of Emergency as required.”
“The community has worked hard over recent weeks to respond to the State of Alert, prepare their Bushfire Survival Plans and think about what they would do if fire did enter the suburbs.”
“We congratulate the community on these preparations and ask Canberrans to stay informed and respond again to any heightened risk if there is a need.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Police and Emergency Services Mick Gentleman
“The ACT Emergency Services Agency remains vigilant and will continue fighting fires near the ACT border.”
“We have not taken the decision to amend the declaration lightly and have acted on the expert advice of ESA Commissioner Georgeina Whelan based on current conditions and our readiness to respond to fire risk near our border.”
“ACT fire crews have assisted NSW in making significant progress containing the three fire fronts burning close to the ACT.
“Residents in our rural and remote locations, including those in Tharwa and Uriarra Village, need to remain alert and prepared for the threat of bushfire crossing our borders.”
“A State of Alert is a serious measure introduced to signal to the community the need to take action and be alert. It has ensured our emergency services and broader ACT Government services have been responsive to the needs of the community during heightened risk.”
- Statement ends -
Andrew Barr, MLA | Mick Gentleman, MLA | Media Releases