FESA has released the following information to help those affected by the fire in the days ahead when they are able to return home.
Roads
The Department of Environment and Conservation, the Fire and Emergency Services Authority and WA Police will advise when roads have been reopened and the fire ground has been made safe. Please be patient.
Motorists in the area should take extreme caution when returning home as there may still be smoke across some roads.
Beware of fire and other emergency services personnel who are continuing their work. Other things to beware of are wandering livestock, loose gravel, debris on roads, fallen trees and branches.
Damaged buildings and property:
Beware of unstable buildings and sharp items such as glass shards, corrugated iron and rubble.
If your building has asbestos materials and it has been damaged, wear appropriate personal protection such as respirators and particle masks.
Fire or falling debris may have damaged chemical containers.
If you are unsure about handling these chemicals contact FESA on 9323 9300 or 9323 9333 during office hours.
If you suspect you have damaged firearms, ammunition or explosives contact local Police.
Around your property:
Do not use water from your water tank as it may be contaminated.
For advice on using rainwahereter after a bushfire visit www.public.health.wa.gov.au (enter ‘rainwater and bushfire’ in the search box).
Beware of falling branches, burnt out stumps, burning and smouldering trees.
Unless you can confirm power is off, treat all lines as live. Several power poles and powerlines have been damaged. Power has been turned off to most areas but please be careful.
Due to damaged fences, livestock from your property and neighbouring properties may be in unexpected locations.
Power:
West ern Power crews are working to re-establish power. Several power poles and powerlines have been damaged. People are asked to be careful of fallen powerlines, they are dangerous and should always be treated as live.
Schools:
Parents are asked to contact local schools for advice on their return to school procedures.
Welfare services:
The Department for Child Protection is continuing to provide services including personal support, food and shelter.
People can access these services by contacting the Disaster Response Hotline on 1800 032 965 or by attending the following relocation centre:
Margaret River Cultural Centre on Walcliffe Road, Margaret River (next to the Shire Office).
These steps may help you and your family with your recovery:
Seek support from local welfare agencies
Encourage your family to talk about their experience with friends and neighbours
Rely on official information from authorities
Become involved in community activities as soon as you can
Children should return to their normal routine as soon as possible
Animal welfare:
The Department of Agriculture and Food, RSPCA and Augusta Margaret River Shire Rangers (9780 5222 or 0419 902 540) are assisting landholders with advice on assessment of livestock that have been injured as a result of the fire.
For help with pet welfare contact your local vet or Leeuwin kennels 9757 7456, Busselton kennels 9753 2163, or Brian Smith for animals which may have been left behind on 0427 387 412.
Important numbers:
Shire of Augusta Margaret River 9780 5255
WA Police 131 444
Western Power 13 13 51
Main Roads WA 138 138
Water Corporation 13 13 75
Telstra 13 22 03
FESA information line 1300 657 209
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