Alert Message – Bunyip Ridge Fire – 12.30pm 13/02/2009
Alert Message – Bunyip Ridge Fire – 12.30pm
Alert message for the communities of Nayook, Whites Corner, McIntyre Rd, Neerim, Neerim Sth, Jindivick, Drouin, Labertouche and Tonimbuk
13/02/2009
Incident Information
The Bunyip Ridge fire is burning in the Bunyip State Park and State Forest areas between Gembrook, Powelltown, Neerim Junction and Tonimbuk and is estimated to be approximately 25,000 hectares in size.
Residents in the Nayook, Whites Corner, McIntyre Rd, Neerim, Neerim Sth, Jindivick, Drouin, Labertouche and Tonimbuk areas are advised that they should not be concerned with increased smoke sightings this afternoon, as backburning operations are occurring in the area as part of fire suppression efforts.
If anyone is concerned about smoke being from a possible new outbreak, they should contact the Victorian Bushfire Information Line on 1800 240 667, and should only call 000 if they see flames.
Even though the Bunyip Ridge fire is not currently posing a threat, residents in these areas need to be aware that with fire activity continuing in the area, there is the potential for it to impact directly.
Control lines continue to be established and secured on the Nth Eastern and Nth Western sectors of this fire.
The public are asked not to unnecessarily come into these areas while blacking out and back burning operations are continuing.
Core Advice
People in the area need to remain alert as there may not be a warning should conditions change unexpectedly. Continue to listen to ABC or local radio for updates on this fire.
Be prepared to activate your bushfire survival plan if necessary.
Decide now if you are going to stay or go. Remember that it is very dangerous to leave late with a fire in the area. Road use in the area will be extremely hazardous due to low visibility from smoke. Watch out for fallen trees, power lines, abandoned cars, wildlife and emergency services vehicles.
If you plan to stay, remember to seek shelter from radiant heat. Should the fire reach your property, close all doors and windows and stay inside the house while the fire passes. Remain alert, extinguish any small fires and if necessary, move outside to burnt ground once the fire has passed.
Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.