SA Country Fire Service

Media release

<Message Starts>

SAMPSON FLAT FIRE UPDATE

06/01/2015

The CFS is advising that 60% of the fire perimeter is contained and we expect this figure to increase as we continue to strengthen control lines.

The fireground is in excess of 12,500 hectares and with a perimeter of some 240 kilometres.
This fire has destroyed or significantly damaged 38 houses, 125 other buildings and 4 businesses.

Areas continuing to cause concern include Humbug Scrub Road in the vicinity of Para Wirra Recreation Park, South Para Road and Deloraine Road Kersbrook, Gorge Road between Torrens Hill Road Paracombe, Cudlee Creek Road Cudlee Creek to the intersection of O'Dea Road and Netherhill Road Kenton Valley as there is no guarantee that the current level of "containment" will remain.

Currently six roads have been opened across the fire ground including the One Tree Hill to Kersbrook Rd and the South Para Rd (Kersbrook area). Mitigation activities are being undertaken at a further nineteen roads to remove trees, powerlines and debris to allow members of the local community to return to their properties. Six of these roads are planned to be opened later today.

Whilst some roads have been opened, the public must remain vigilant for potential or existing hazards as fire resources and support agencies continue to work in these areas.

Some aerial firefighting chemicals may have infiltrated some domestic water supplies. Whilst these products are not harmful, for further information on these products and affects please go to the CFS website www.cfs.sa.gov.au

The CFS and the Bureau of Meteorology continue to monitor localised weather conditions including the possibility of increased winds and gully breezes over the next 24 - 48 hours and the potential of thunderstorms and some rain later in the week.

The CFS also advises all residents or visitors to the areas listed above to check and follow their Bushfire Survival Plan. If your plan is to leave or you are not prepared, leave now – but only if the path is clear to a safe place. Well prepared and actively defended homes can offer safety.

<Message Ends>

Media information
For media enquiries call the CFS Media Line on 08 8115 3531.

Government of South Australia