Wingecarribee and Wollondilly Shire residents are warned of an extreme fire danger alert across both shires for January 4.
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Fire danger levels and ratings range from low-moderate, high, very high, severe, extreme to code red, but what do they mean?
Ratings from low-moderate to very high suggest that if a fire starts, it can most likely be controlled in these conditions and homes can provide safety. Be aware of how fires can start and minimise the risk.
Severe - the rating currently applicable to this region - means we should expect hot, dry and possibly windy conditions. If a fire starts and takes hold, it may be uncontrollable.
Well prepared homes that are actively defended can provide safety. You must be physically and mentally prepared to defend in these conditions.
Extreme means you should expect extremely hot, dry and windy conditions. If a fire starts and takes hold, it will be uncontrollable, unpredictable and fast moving. Spot fires will start, move quickly and come from many directions.
Homes that are situated and constructed or modified to withstand a bushfire, that are well prepared and actively defended, may provide safety. You must be physically and mentally prepared to defend in these conditions.
Code red applies to the worst conditions for a bush or grass fire. Homes are not designed or constructed to withstand fires in these conditions. The safest place to be is away from high risk bushfire areas.
The statuses and alerts of fires can be equally confusing, however, this is what they mean according to the Fire Near Me website.
Status:
Out of control - A fire which is spreading on one or more fronts. Effective containment strategies are not in place for the entire perimeter.
Being controlled - Effective strategies are in operation or planned for the entire perimeter.
Under control - The fire is at a stage where fire fighting resources are only required for patrol purposes and major re-ignition is unlikely.
Alert:
Emergency warning - Is the highest level of Bush Fire Alert. You may be in danger and need to take action immediately. Any delay now puts your life at risk.
Watch and act - There is a heightened level of threat. Conditions are changing and you need to start taking action now to protect you and your family.
Advice - A fire has started. There is no immediate danger. Stay up to date in case the situation changes.
