Bushfire Reality Check

Published on Wednesday, 17 December 2025 at 11:41:31 AM

Bushfire Reality Check

  • Bushfires don’t wait for you to be ready. They can start suddenly and move fast, sometimes with little or no warning.
  • Bushfires are a constant threat across Western Australia. More than 90% of the State is officially designated as bushfire prone.
  • To make planning easier DFES has launched a new multi-hazard emergency planning tool in the Emergency WA app and website, allowing Western Australians to create one plan for bushfire, flood, storm and cyclone. This feature replaces the My Bushfire Plan app and it can also prompt you to follow your plan when an emergency impacts your area, helping you act quickly during fast-moving hazards.

 

Bushfire Reality Check - are you really ready?

  1. Ask yourself: Am I at risk?
  • Take a moment to consider if your home, workplace, or regular destinations are in bushfire-prone areas.
  • Think about your surroundings: Is your home close to bushland, parks, or open fields? Homes near natural vegetation are at higher risk, especially if there’s only one road in or out.
  • Remember: Even if you haven’t experienced a bushfire before, conditions can change quickly, don’t assume you’re safe.
  • Don’t have a bushfire plan? Now is the time to make one via the Emergency WA website or app.

 

2. Test your plan: will it stand up to a real emergency?

  • If you already have a plan, do a quick “reality check”:
    • Is it up to date for your current household, pets, and property?
    • Does everyone know what to do if a bushfire warning is issued?
    • Does everyone in your household have a role and know what it is?

 

3. Inspect your property: would it stand up to embers and flames?

  • Walk around your home and look for risks:
    • Are gutters clear leaves and debris?
    • Are trees trimmed so branches don’t overhang the roof?
    • Is dry vegetation or flammable material close to the house?
    • Are hoses and water sources ready and working?
    • Are wood piles, outdoor furniture, or fuel containers stored away from the house?

  

Let’s take action this month!

  • Do your Bushfire Reality Check: Walk around your home, talk with your family, and see where you can make improvements - no action is too small.
  • Update or create your bushfire plan: Use the Emergency WA app to make sure your plan is ready for this season. Share it with everyone in your household.
  • Connect with your community: Share these tips with neighbours, friends, and local groups. The more people who are prepared, the safer everyone will be.
  • Stay informed: Keep an eye on fire danger ratings and local alerts. Sign up for notifications on your Emergency WA app so you’re always up to date.
  • Reach out for support: If you need help or resources, contact your local Community Preparedness Advisor or the DFES Community Preparedness Directorate.

  

For step-by-step guidance, checklists, and practical tips, download the Bushfire Preparation Toolkit from the DFES website.

 

We have also created two new YouTube videos:

Creating an Emergency Plan

Editing an Emergency Plan

                                                                               

Every action you take now helps protect your family, your neighbours, and your community. Let’s make this summer a safe one -together.

 

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