CFS issues fire bans for Ceduna, Elliston, Streaky Bay and Wudinna area

The season’s first fire bans are looming as South Australian forecasts predict soaring temperatures by the time the weekend is over.

Residents of South Australia’s west coast have been warned to prepare for extreme hot weather on Saturday, with the possibility of fire bans across other parts of the state.

The Country Fire Service issued the first fire ban of the season for the area which covers Ceduna, Elliston, Streaky Bay and Wudinna.

CFS Deputy State Controller Fire and Hazmat Brenton Hastie said other parts of the state may be issued fire warnings as temperatures in Adelaide soar to 31C on Monday, when more bans are expected to be in place.

“There’s a number of other districts that are borderline at the moment, so we’ll talk about that at 4pm on Sunday,” Mr Hastie said.

With 13,500 firefighters on duty this weekend, the CFS will also have aircraft based out of Port Pirie on standby Monday.

The northeast pastoral district has also been declared an extreme fire danger zone for Monday.

Mr Hastie said regardless if a fire ban was issued, those planning to celebrate the AFL grand final with an outdoor barbecue should exercise caution.

“It is going to be a windy day across much of South Australia, so please make sure there is always someone in attendance,” he said.

“If you are in proximity to an area that is forested or has scrub, (don’t) underestimate the risk as a fire can get away very quickly.

“This season is of concern … Fuel is drying out quickly, so we’re expecting much of the state to head into bushfire danger earlier than what we would normally see.”

He also urged long weekend holiday makers to check the fire danger ratings in the districts they were staying or travelling through and “to stay alert and informed in case a bushfire starts”.

“If a BBQ or Campfire was on the plans for the weekend, ensure you check the fire bans first, that the fire is constantly monitored and is extinguished using water when you’re finished,” he said.

“Although the warmer weather predicted for this weekend makes it not the best time to undertake preparation activities, you can still update or create your bushfire survival plan and move flammable items from under your veranda so that if a fire starts, items close to your house don’t catch fire.”

For information about the fire danger ratings and total fire bans, visit cfs.sa.gov.au