Another fire has started travelling in a north-easterly direction ahead of the main front. Kinglake Ranges News will continue monitoring the situation with live updates.
This Watch & Act message is for Ancona, Merton, Strathbogie, Strathbogie South.
- There is a grassfire at Strathbogie that is not yet under control.
- This grassfire is currently travelling in a south-easterly direction towards North Creek Road.
- A south west wind change is expected at approximately 7pm which will push the fire in a north easterly direction towards Merton-Strathbogie Road, Ankers Road and Tames Road areas.
Don’t wait, leaving now is the safest option – conditions may change and get worse very quickly. Emergency Services may not be able to help you if you decide to stay.
What you should do:
The best protection from radiant heat and smoke is distance.
Travel to:
- The townships of Euroa or Mansfield.
- The home of family or friends that are away from the warning area.
- When you leave remember to take your pets, medications, mobile phone and charger.
- If you encounter smoke or flames whilst travelling, turn around and drive to safety. If you’re unable to turn around and drive to safety, a car offers more protection from the fire’s heat than being caught on foot in the open.
- If you are away from home, do not return.
If you choose to stay, seek shelter indoors:
- Bring your pets indoors.
- Close all exterior doors, windows and vents.
- Turn off cooling systems.
- Shelter in a room that has a door and a window to the outside so you can keep an eye on what is happening with the fire.
Impacts in your area:
- Some local road closures may be in place.
- Check the VicTraffic website (traffic.vicroads.vic.gov.au/) or call 13 11 70 for road closures.
- Now is the time to charge your mobile phone. Pack a car phone charger or spare battery. You should check the batteries in your radio.
This message was issued by Country Fire Authority.
The next update is expected by 04/01/2019 10:30 pm or as the situation changes.
If you can smell smoke, please note:
- Smoke can affect people’s health.
- People with heart or lung conditions (including asthma), children, pregnant women and older people are more sensitive to the effects of breathing in smoke.
- People with existing heart or lung conditions (including asthma) should follow the treatment plan advised by the doctor.
Health information:
- If you need medical advice for burns or exposure to smoke, seek medical advice or call Nurse on Call on 1300 606 024.
- Anyone experiencing wheezing, chest tightness and difficulty breathing should call Triple Zero (000).
If you cannot smell smoke you are not likely to be exposed to smoke and it will therefore not affect you.
Use multiple sources to stay informed:
- www.emergency.vic.gov.au.
- VicEmergency Hotline – freecall 1800 226 226.
- VicEmergency app.
- Facebook or Twitter (#vicfires).
- Tune in to ABC Local Radio, commercial and designated community radio stations, or Sky News TV.
Accessibility:
The following services can help you, or someone you know, access information during an emergency.
- To access this information in other languages call the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450 (freecall) and ask them to call VicEmergency Hotline.
- If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech/communication impairment contact National Relay Service on 1800 555 677 and ask them to call the VicEmergency Hotline.
