Total Fire Bans: All you need to know

Published on Thursday, 9 December 2021 at 12:54:57 PM

Total Fire Bans (TFBs) are declared on days when fires are most likely to threaten lives and property. This could be due to predicted extreme fire weather or when there are already widespread fires and firefighting resources are stretched.

While TFBs occur most often during the fire season, they are occasionally declared in the cooler months due to factors such as higher temperatures or expected strong winds preceding a storm front. 

Total Fire Ban Facts

  • TFBs are announced either in the afternoon the day before, or on the actual day. They usually start at midnight and last for 24 hours.
  • The need for the ban is assessed throughout the day and may be cancelled depending on conditions.
  • Any burning permits held by residents or landowners are fully suspended until the ban is over.
  • TFBs are declared using the whole local government boundary.
  • If a TFB is declared, it is illegal to light an open-air fire or conduct any activity that could start a fire.
  • If a TFB is declared, you can’t use any barbeque or cooker that requires solid fuel like wood or charcoal in the open air – this includes things like wood fired ovens, pizza ovens, or coal barbeques.
  • If a TFB is declared, you can’t use a vehicle (4WD, motorbike, quad bike etc) in the bush or paddock (off-road). You can only use a vehicle on a road, track or in an area which has been sufficiently cleared of flammable material.
  • For other prohibited activities, visit: dfes.wa.gov.au/site/bushfire/totalfirebans.html#faqs

How do I know if a TFB has been declared?

There are many ways to stay informed when it comes to Total Fire Bans, including:

  • Checking the Emergency WA website. To do this, simply head to www.emergency.wa.gov.au, click on "filter", scroll down to "total fire bans" and select "today or tomorrow".
  • Call 13 DFES (13 3337)
  • Call the TFB Hotline 1800 709 355
  • Follow DFES on Facebook (www.facebook.com/dfeswa) or Twitter (twitter.com/dfes_wa)
  • Listen to ABC local radio
  • Look for local government roadside Fire Danger Rating signs

For more information on Fire and Emergency Management, visit: sjshire.wa.gov.au/community/fire-and-emergency-management 

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