Victoria’s fire danger ratings are changing from today (Thursday, September 1) to fall in line with the Australian Fire Danger Rating System.
Fire danger ratings provide information so people can take action to protect themselves and others.
Based on community feedback, the new fire danger rating system uses four colour-coded levels – Moderate, High, Extreme and Catastrophic – and plain language to provide clear advice on what action communities need to take at each level.
Emergency management commissioner Andrew Crisp said the new system will create a unified understanding of the current level of fire danger anywhere in the country.
“The new fire danger rating system means that no matter where you live in Victoria or Australia, the same system will be in place,” he said.
“This is particularly important for our border communities and travellers.
“The new system is based on Australia’s largest piece of social research – the community told us they want a simpler system that is easier to understand with clear actions at each level and that’s what we’ve delivered in Victoria.”
Emergency Management Victoria are also gearing up for a high-risk weather season with the release of the Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council’s bushfire outlook last week highlighting forests in the Wimmera and south west of the state may become drier with the forecast of higher-than-average day and night temperatures potentially increasing the fire risk in those areas.
Victoria State Emergency Service chief officer Tim Wiebusch said Victorians are also being urged to be wary around flood waters and stay aware of flood warnings.
“Make sure you stay informed, and listen to the advice of emergency services as warnings are issued,” he said.
“We’re also asking communities to have a plan in place.
“Start conversations with your family and household to discuss your options in the event of a storm or severe weather event.”
Details: emergency.vic.gov.au/respond
