CFS volunteer burned fighting Wilmington bushfire in the Flinders Ranges
A volunteer CFS firefighter has been injured while fighting a large blaze in a national park in the Flinders Ranges.
A volunteer firefighter has suffered burn injuries while working to contain a large scrub fire near Wilmington in the Flinders Ranges, with at least 800 hectares now burned since Monday.
Advice from the Country Fire Service (CFS) on Tuesday was for the public to avoid the smoke in the area, as the entire Mount Remarkable National Park remained closed.
In a Facebook post, the CFS said that one of their volunteers had sustained burns overnight, and that they were receiving medical attention.
“We are saddened to announce that one of our volunteer firefighters has sustained burn injuries while responding to the Wilmington fire on Monday,” the post read.
“At this time, the firefighter is receiving medical attention, and their condition is being monitored.
“The wellbeing of CFS members is our top priority, and we are ensuring that the necessary care and support is in place for the member, their family, and the wider CFS community.
“Our thoughts are with them and their family as they go through this difficult time. We kindly request their privacy be respected during this time.”
The Country Fire Service are currently working to contain a scrub fire in the Flinders Ranges, with the national park being closed until further notice.
As of 2pm on Tuesday, the CFS said at least 800 hectares have been burned since Monday, after they were alerted to a scrub fire at Alligator Gorge at the Mount Remarkable National Park just before 4:30pm on Monday.
Approximately 35 CFS firefighters are working on the fireground, supported by six Department of Environment and Water (DEW) personnel and six aircraft, including firebombers and observational aircraft.
The CFS said smoke from the fire was impacting roads in the area, including nearby town Wilmington, and warned people to stay away and monitor local conditions.
“Smoke from the Wilmington fire is in the general vicinity of the Wilmington township and surrounding localities,” they said.
“Smoke can affect your health. You should stay informed and be aware of the health impacts of smoke on yourself and others.
“Symptoms of exposure includes shortness of breath, wheezing and coughing, burning eyes, running nose, chest tightness, chest pain and dizziness or light-headedness.”
The CFS have reminded people in the area to stay up to date with information regarding the fire.
“Stay informed if you are in this area. Decide what you will do if the situation changes,” they said
“At this time there is no threat to life or property and firefighters are attending this fire.
“To ensure your safety and that of firefighters and other emergency personnel who are working in the area, please do not enter the area unless necessary.”
The CFS said more information would be provided when it is available.
The cause of the fire is yet to be determined.
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Originally published as CFS volunteer burned fighting Wilmington bushfire in the Flinders Ranges
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