THE bushfire danger period is set to begin for many local government areas this week, but it's the new fire ratings system that crews want locals to learn fast.
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The Rural Fire Service (RFS) said a wetter than average outlook and threat of La Nina didn't mean the North West was out of the woods.
Heath Stimson leads the North West RFS and said locals now more than ever needed to know what the new system means, before a fire was on their doorstep.
"Whilst we've got wetter than average conditions, I'm concerned when the grass dries out and we get those weeks of warm windy days it won't take long ... that's why we are very concerned," he said.
The new Fire Danger Ratings have four levels instead of six - moderate, high, extreme and catastrophic.
Mr Stimson said when there is minimal risk, Fire Danger Rating signs will be set to 'no rating'. This is the white wedge sitting under moderate, and was effectively an "off position".
"We've got four levels instead of six, with simplified messaging with those danger levels," he said.
"So we need community members to get to know those new levels and what they mean.
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"It provides key messaging about fire behaviour and the action that people should take."
Mr Stimson warned the public not to be complacent because fires were already breaking out, and locals should be prepared.
"At some point that significant level of grass will dry out," he said.
"The grass heights are incredibly high already."
The new ratings were created in 2018 to nationalise the system and make it easier to understand, no matter which state you lived in.
What the new ratings mean
Moderate fire danger
- Stay up to date and be ready to act if there is a fire.
High fire danger
- There's a heightened risk. Be alert for fires in your area.
- Decide what you will do if a fire starts.
- If a fire starts, your life and property may be at risk. The safest option is to avoid bushfire risk areas.
Extreme fire danger
- These are dangerous fire conditions.
- Check your bushfire plan and ensure that your property is fire ready.
- If a fire starts, take immediate action. If you and your property are not prepared to the highest level, go to a safer location well before the fire impacts.
- Reconsider travel through bushfire risk areas.
Catastrophic fire danger
- These are the most dangerous conditions for a fire.
- Your life may depend on the decisions you make, even before there is a fire.
- Stay safe by going to a safer location early in the morning or the night before.
- Homes cannot withstand fires in these conditions.
- You may not be able to leave, and help may not be available.
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Breanna Chillingworth
Northern Daily Leader Senior Crime and Court Reporter
Northern Daily Leader Senior Crime and Court Reporter
