Christmas weather forecast puts firefighters on high alert
24/12/2024
South Australian fire authorities will be on high alert this festive period as hot weather, strong winds and the prevailing dry conditions create an elevated Christmas fire risk across the state.
The Bureau of Meteorology is predicting heightened fire danger weather across the state for Christmas Day and Proclamation Day.
CFS Chief Officer, Brett Loughlin, AFSM, said weather conditions across the coming two days will be challenging, particularly due to high winds, and that South Australians should take the risk very seriously.
"Even at this highly festive time of year, South Australia's 13,500 volunteer firefighters are ready and willing to serve our community and ensure its safety," Chief Officer Loughlin said.
"We're facing high-risk conditions across South Australia and we ask that you ensure you're not doing anything to threaten the community's safety and, equally, are allowing our firefighters to spend time with their family and friends over Christmas.
"All South Australians should ensure their bushfire survival plan considers their Christmas celebrations. Your plan should incorporate any travel or visitors to your home."
MFS Chief Officer, Jeff Swann urged people to ensure their outdoor cooking equipment such as barbecues, are properly prepared for safe operation.
"On Total Fire Ban Days your plans to cook outdoors may need to be adjusted, visit the CFS website and review the rules that apply," Chief Officer Jeff Swann said.
"Always inspect your barbecue thoroughly as gas cylinders, hoses, and connections can wear down over time. A simple check can prevent dangerous accidents, especially when the fire danger is high.
"In peri-urban areas, where vegetation and dry grass are often in close proximity to homes, it's especially important to keep barbecues at least four metres away from any flammable materials. A little precaution can prevent a small spark from becoming a devastating fire."
For more information about what you can or can't do during the Fire Danger Season and when Total Fire Bans are in place, visit the CFS website at www.cfs.sa.gov.au
