On 1 September 2022, fire danger ratings changed in Australia to the Australian Fire Danger Rating System (AFDRS). The AFDRS is the same in every state and territory.
Fire danger ratings provide information so people in affected areas can take action to protect themselves and others. The higher the fire danger, the more dangerous the conditions and the greater the impact will be if a fire starts.
The system was changed after one of Australia's largest community surveys showed the majority of Australians did not understand the previous fire danger rating system.
Based on feedback from the survey, the AFDRS uses fewer levels, logical colours and simple English terms to provide clear advice about what actions to take at the new fire danger levels.
The previous system was based on science that is more than 60 years old. The AFDRS uses better technology and research to greatly improve the ability to accurately predict fire behaviour and the potential threat to communities.
Since August, old fire danger signs have been covered with a sticker letting communities know that fire danger ratings are changing and will be replaced with new ones from September. The signs will be replaced according to the communities whose fire season will arrive first.
Learn more about the new fire danger ratings here: emergency.vic.gov.au/firedangerratings.
As the summer approaches be sure to monitor conditions and check the VicEmergency website or app whilst at home and before travelling. Daily fire danger ratings can also be found on the CFA website.
