Read each step below to learn what you can do to stay informed, act on advice provided and stay safe. 

Step 1: Understand the Community Messaging Framework.

Each fire danger rating level has a nationally consistent, distinct, and simple action-oriented message (as shown below). This advice appears on signs and webpages but can also be supported by additional information to help people understand why the advice is important to act upon. Taken together, these statements make up the Australian Fire Danger Rating System (AFDRS) Community Messaging Framework.

Step 2: Understand where to get information

Passive Prompting

Most of us are familiar with fire danger ratings shown on roadside signs. But these signs can’t be everywhere. Current and next day fire danger ratings are also broadcast on tv and are printed in many newspapers. For many people, social media might also prompt about fire danger, especially if they are following local emergency services feeds. The Bureau of Meteorology issue fire danger warnings as part of weather forecasts, in high-risk periods.

Active Monitoring

All state and territory fire agencies maintain up to date information about fire danger in map and table form. This includes the current fire danger as well as forecast fire danger out to four days. Some agencies have phone apps that achieve a similar purpose. Monitoring emergency services webpages is the best way to stay informed. Downloading your relevant emergency services phone app or subscribing to their social media newsfeeds is also recommended. Tables of fire danger for each jurisdiction are also available from the Bureau of Meteorology website, however, emergency services website include additional advice and information such as total fire bans, emergency incidents and warnings.

Step 3: Know your Fire Weather District

Fire danger is reported against areas called Fire Weather Districts (FWD). It is important for members of the community to understand which FWD they are in. Usually this is easy to determine because fire agency webpages report fire danger on Fire Weather District maps. Some jurisdictions also offer fire danger ratings for smaller areas, such as local government areas. See the links in the previous step for further information.

Step 4: Know when it is time to act

Consult the Community Messaging Framework from Step 1, and any additional advice provided by emergency services. Check your emergency services website for further information such as fires that have started, roads that are closed etc. Consult your Bushfire Plan. Plan a course of action. And when appropriate, take action!