Released 23/01/2020 - Joint media release
Minister for Police and Emergency Services Mick Gentleman announced today the State of Alert has been reinstated to include all of the ACT.
This update follows advice from the Emergency Services Agency Commissioner about the bushfire conditions, which includes high winds, as well as bushfires burning in, and around, the ACT.
A State of Alert is a signal to the community that we must all be prepared for extreme conditions.
The Emergency Controller powers have also been renewed and Commissioner Whelan will continue in this role.
The ACT Emergency Services Agency remains vigilant and the teams’ readiness level means we can act on plans quickly to scale up any emergency response if unforeseen conditions emerge.
The ESA will continue to monitor the conditions and risk and inform the government and community as required.
Chief Minister Andrew Barr said it was important that the ACT community was well prepared during current extreme weather conditions.
“The ACT Government has determined that the best way we can ensure our community is prepared is by putting in place arrangements that will ensure our emergency services are able to be as responsive as possible,” he said.
“We have been well briefed by the ACT ESA Commissioner and given the extreme weather conditions and current fires we believe this is the best measure to ensure the preparedness of our community.”
Minister for Police and Emergency Services Mick Gentleman said Canberrans can help by being vigilant and preparing their own bushfire survival plan.
“It is important that Canberrans continue to monitor conditions and keep themselves informed about conditions and fire activity,” he said.
“As well as through local media, the best way to stay up to date is through the ESA website at esa.act.gov.au,” he said.
“All Canberrans need to also ensure they have a Bushfire Survival Plan in place and in addition should consider completing an Emergency Grab and Go Booklet which can support evacuation. Both these plans are available on the ESA website.
“We will continue to assess the situation as conditions change and will make any further amendments to the State of Alert as required.”
- Statement ends -
Andrew Barr, MLA | Mick Gentleman, MLA | Media Releases