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The bushfire at Karara west of Warwick has been downgraded to ‘advice’ level by Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QGES) but residents are still urged to monitor the situation in case it changes.
Yesterday, Sunday 2 December, QFES was warning locals to prepare to evacuate the village but a change in wind direction late in the afternoon reduced the threat from the fire.
A 737 aircraft dumped 15,000 litres of water on the fire which also helped to slow its progress.
As of midday today, Monday 3 December, the fire was still travelling from Strathyre Road towards the Toowoomba-Karara Road and Millmerran Road, with crews working to strengthen containment lines.
A QFES statement said residents need to “keep up to date and decide what actions you will take if the situation changes”.
“People in the area will be affected by smoke, which will reduce visibility and air quality,” the statement said.
“Call Triple Zero (000) immediately if you believe you or your property is under threat.”
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO:
• Listen to your local radio station or visit the Rural Fire Service (RFS) website for regular updates.
• If you have a bushfire survival plan, refer to it now and be ready to follow it.
• If you do not have a bushfire survival plan, or if your plan is to leave, identify where you will go if the situation changes.
• Close windows and doors to minimise smoke exposure.
• If you suffer from a respiratory condition, keep your medication close by.
• Drive with caution in low visibility conditions.
• Contact your neighbours to see if they need help preparing for the bushfire.
• Consider finding your essential items (e.g., identification documents, prescription medication, food and water, and protective clothing such as a long-sleeved cotton shirt and trousers, and boots) in case you need to leave.
• Consider what you will do to protect your pets and livestock.
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Advise family and friends of your intended actions if the situation changes.
KEEP UP TO DATE BY:
• Following QFES on Facebook (@QldFireandRescueService) and Twitter (@QldFES)
• Staying tuned to your local radio station. Find your local ABC radio station at radio.abc.net.au/help/offline and your local commercial radio station at www.commercialradio.com.au/find-a-station/queensland;
• Visiting the Rural Fire Service (RFS) website at www.ruralfire.qld.gov.au/map
FURTHER INFORMATION:
• For bushfire preparation tips, visit the RFS website: www.ruralfire.qld.gov.au/BushFire_Safety
• For information about road closures, call 13 19 40 or visit www.qldtraffic.qld.gov.au
The next update will be provided when the situation changes.
