UPDATE 3.30PM – DFES reports that homes to the west of Beck Road in Courtenay are under immediate threat. Residents need to act now to survive.
Approximately 30 firefighters from Margaret River VFRS, Augusta VFRS, Karridale BFB, Kudardup BFB, East Augusta BFB, Molloy Island BFB, Alexandra Bridge BFB and Witchcliffe BFB are attending the blaze.
EMERGENCY WARNING
People bounded by Brockman Highway to the North, Courtney Road to the East, Payne Road to the South, Wall Road to the West.
WATCH AND ACT
People bounded by Scott River Road to the East, Strucels Road to the South, Blackwood River to the West, Marsh Road to the North.
WHAT TO DO:
If your plan is to stay and actively defend, do not rely on mains water pressure as it may be affected. If you have access to a water tank and plan to defend your home, start patrolling with your hose and put out spot fires.
It is too late to leave, leaving now would be deadly.
You need to shelter in your home and actively defend it.
Go to a room away from the fire front and make sure you can easily escape.
Choose a room with two exits and water such as a kitchen or laundry.
You must shelter before the fire arrives, as the extreme heat will kill you well before the flames reach you.
Protect yourself by wearing long sleeves and trousers, made from cotton or wool, and strong leather boots.
If your home catches on fire and the conditions inside become unbearable, you need to get out and go to an area that has already been burnt.
Close all doors and windows and turn off evaporative air conditioners, but keep water running through the system if possible.
BUSHFIRE BEHAVIOUR:
It is out of control and unpredictable.
ROAD CLOSURES AND CONDITIONS:
Some roads may be closed.
Motorists are asked to avoid the area, reduce speed and drive carefully due to smoke.
WHAT FIREFIGHTERS ARE DOING:
Firefighters are on the scene.
