New rating signs are a daily reminder of region’s fire risk

The solar-powered signs will take a data feed from the Bureau of Meteorology website to ensure information is accurate, up-to-date and in real time.

Shire Community Emergency Services Manager Chris Lloyd encouraged community members to refresh their knowledge about the meaning of the ratings, and the recommended actions of each category.

“The fire danger ratings ranged from low-moderate to catastrophic,” he said.

“Each rating comes with a recommendation of what you should do – whether it is staying alert and aware of fire risk, getting ready to act, or acting immediately.

“The ratings act as a trigger point for many families to start enacting their bushfire preparedness plan early.

“Please take time to make yourself familiar with the fire danger ratings by visiting the DFES website.”

Mr Lloyd said the first of the signs was installed last week at the northern entry to Cowaramup, while the second sign would likely be installed in the Margaret River townsite in the near future.

“These fixed signs aim to capture tourist traffic as well as locals,” he said.

“The whole of the Shire is a declared Bushfire Prone Area and we need to ensure the preparedness message is spread far and wide.”

The new fire danger rating signs will be complemented by the rotation of large variable messaging road signage.

“The message is be aware, be informed, and be prepared,” Mr Lloyd said.

“We can’t afford complacency.”

Mr Lloyd said a recent Shire prescribed burn on the north edge of Margaret River was a great success with support from the local community. 

“Everyone understood that this burn was extremely important for the town’s protection and they pitched in and completed this burn in a single day,” he added.

“Residents also saw a second burn last week which was conducted by local Parks and Wildlife Services.”