Total Fire Ban - Friday 18th January

Canberrans are being reminded there is a Total Fire Ban in place for the whole of the ACT until 23:59 today (Friday 18 January, 2019). A Total Fire Ban is also in place in surrounding New South Wales. The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting dry conditions and strong winds today with a predicted temperature of 40 degrees. The Forecast Fire Danger Rating (FDR) for today is predicted to be SEVERE. This means if a fire starts it may be uncontrollable and move quickly, so if you see a fire without a crew or truck in attendance please call Emergency Triple Zero (000). To find out more about Total Fire Bans, including any closures or restrictions visit the ACT Emergency Services Agency website www.esa.act.gov.au or call Access Canberra on 13 22 81. Canberrans are also being encouraged to help reduce the strain on our power grid by turning off all non-essential electrical appliances, setting your air conditioner to 26 degrees and switching off unused lighting. Those with serious illness or those with life maintaining equipment requiring power, are not required to voluntarily reduce their energy use. Given the hot weather, it is important people still take appropriate precautions for their own safety and comfort. In particular those in our community that are more vulnerable, including the elderly, pregnant women, young children and babies. For more energy saving tips visit: www.actsmart.act.gov.au/energy-saving For tips on how to stay cool and safe in the hot weather visit: https://www.health.act.gov.au/about-our-health-system/population-health/summer-safety