Following a weekend of Extreme Fire Danger, the Minister for Fire & Emergency Services is thanking the Canberra community for their support and compliance during last week's Total Fire Ban (TOBAN) day.
For the first TOBAN in six years, the high level of cooperation across the ACT played a crucial role in preventing any major fires and keeping our community safe.
While the Extreme Fire Danger conditions have eased, the risks from Natural Disasters have not. The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting storms late today (Wednesday) and tomorrow (Thursday), and we encourage everyone to remain alert to changing conditions.
Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services, Dr Marisa Paterson acknowledged the efforts of firefighters and emergency services personal for detecting, containing and extinguishing more than five fires that started in the ACT during the first half of January.
"Lightning started a number of fires in remote bush of the ACT last week and through the efforts of aviation, technology, firefighting and emergency management specialists, all fires were spotted early which meant they could be contained and extinguished.
"I want to thank staff and volunteers who have continued to provide support interstate, with members of the ACT Rural Fire Service, ACT Parks and Conservation Service, and ACT State Emergency Service currently deployed to Victoria to assist with firefighting efforts.
"I also want to thank the Canberra community, for staying emergency ready, not just during the Total Fire Ban, but throughout the recent hot weather and during major events like Summernats.
"Your actions helped keep our community safe and allowed everyone to enjoy the warmer conditions. But now is not the time to become complacent. Last week's conditions may be a sign of what's ahead, and that's why it's so important that we all stay prepared. For practical tips on being emergency ready, visit the ESA website."
Quotes attributable to ESA Commissioner, Wayne Phillips
"I want to acknowledge the extraordinary efforts of our staff and volunteers who have worked tirelessly throughout this summer to keep our community safe. Many have sacrificed precious time with family and friends over the holiday period so they can be there for others in need, and their commitment to service is something our whole community can be proud of.
"That dedication continues today, with more than 20 ACT personnel currently deployed to Victoria to support firefighting efforts on the ground. We wish them safe travels and a safe return home, and we send our thoughts to everyone in Victoria who is being impacted by these devastating bushfires."
