Released 04/10/2023
The first week of October marks the start of the 2023-24 hazard season in the ACT.
As the likelihood of storms and bushfires increases across the territory, Minister for Police and Emergency Services Mick Gentleman is urging Canberrans to turn to the ACT Emergency Services Agency (ESA) for trusted information.
“Living in the ‘bush capital’ of Australia means that the occurrence of high-risk weather events, such as storms, floods, bushfires and heatwaves, are an inevitable, but the impacts of them can be reduced. Being prepared for these events is essential to each individual’s safety and plays a significant role in the wider resilience of our community,” Minister Gentleman said.
“The ESA website provides information and resources to assist in preparing your home or property for all hazards, as well as templates for survival plans. This is a great place to start your preparedness journey. We’re ready when Canberra prepares together.”
Be ready for bushfires
ACT Rural Fire Service Chief Officer (ACTRFS) Rohan Scott said the ACTRFS works year-round to prepare Canberra for the hazard season.
ACTRFS works with rural land holders and the ACT Parks & Conservation Service to conduct prescribed burns and manage fuel loads across the capital. However, this should not mean the community is complacent when it comes to bushfire safety.
“Regardless of the severity of the season ahead, the risk of bush and grass fire remains, and you need to be prepared, informed, and know what to do in the event of a fire or smoke impact. To learn how to be fire ready, and to understand the fire risk to the ACT you can check the daily fire danger rating on the ESA website from October 1,” said Chief Officer Scott.
“Additionally, social connections are integral in building community resilience. Reach out to your neighbours, family, friends, and anyone that may need an extra helping hand, to see if you can assist each other in any kind of emergency.”
“Ahead of the season I would like to acknowledge the commitment, skill, and professionalism of our amazing volunteers. We are incredibly grateful for the time you dedicate to your community, particularly through a period that is the holiday season for many Canberrans."
Staying storm safe
The ACT State Emergency Service (ACTSES) is well prepared for storm season, with the recent recruitment of an additional 92 volunteers, who are trained and operational ready for the season ahead.
ACTSES Chief Officer Anthony Draheim said to be completely ready for hazard season, it’s also up to the community to prepare themselves and their property.
“ACTSES is asking Canberrans for their support, you can help us by ensuring your home is prepared all year round for a storm. Trim overhanging trees, know what to do in a storm or flood event, and ensure you have an emergency plan, including home emergency kit with supplies that will last for at least 72 hours,” Chief Officer Draheim said.
“I would also like to thank all our amazing volunteers. All of them give up valuable time with family and friends to help our community all hours of the day and night. We would not be able to provide the level assistance that we do without their dedication.”
The ACT Emergency Services Agency will conduct a community awareness campaign throughout the hazard season to encourage Canberra residents to connect in with their local community and be prepared for the threat of bushfire and extreme weather.
For more information and tips on how you can Be Emergency Ready, visit www.esa.act.gov.au
For storm and flood assistance call 132 500, in a life-threatening emergency call Emergency 000.
- Statement ends -
Mick Gentleman, MLA | Media Releases