Baldivis bushfire alert downgraded

FIREFIGHTERS have contained a bushfire which was a potential threat to lives and homes south of Perth on Thursday afternoon.

The bushfire watch and act alert for north eastern parts of Baldivis in the City of Rockingham has been downgraded to an advice.

The advice affects people in an area bounded by Mundijong Road, St Albans Road and the BP along Kwinana Freeway near Leary Road.

For up-to-date information visit www.emergency.wa.gov.au

“There is no threat to lives or homes,” The Department of Fire and Emergency Services says in the alert.

“The alert level for this fire has been downgraded as the fire has been controlled and fire conditions have improved.

“Although there is no immediate danger you need to be aware and keep up to date in case the situation changes.”

DFES said the fire started near the intersection of Bertenshaw Road and Leary Road, and was reported at about 1.30pm on February 13.

The fire is stationary, contained and under control.

DFES said the cause of the fire was accidental.

No roads are closed off but motorists are asked to avoid the area, reduce speed and drive carefully due to smoke.

Road information may also be available from Main Roads WA by calling 138 138 or visiting travelmap.mainroads.wa.gov.au or by contacting the City of Rockingham.

WHAT TO DO during a Watch and Act:

If you are not prepared or you plan to leave, leave now if the way is clear.

If you are well prepared and plan to actively defend your home, make final preparations now.

If you plan to stay and actively defend, do not rely on mains water pressure as it may be affected. You need to have access to an independent water supply, and start patrolling your property to put out spot fires.

At all times close all doors and windows and turn off evaporative air conditioners, but keep water running through the system if possible.

If you are not at home, do not try to return as conditions in the area could be very dangerous.

KEEP UP TO DATE:

Visit www.emergency.wa.gov.au, call 13 DFES (13 3337), follow DFES on Twitter, Facebook, listen to ABC Local Radio, 6PR, or news bulletins.