In November 2011, A Level 3 bushfire in the south west of WA challenged fire fighters from all fire fighting agencies. The fire destroyed thirty two homes and burnt out more than 3,400 hectares of Crown land and private property.

After the fire and the release of the report (Appreciating the Risk), the Government announced in its response that it accepted all of the Report’s recommendations as well as a wide range of actions beyond the specific recommendations.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) engaged in extensive consultation with key stakeholders to meet action items required by the State Government.

Zone Response:

Special response zones have been identified in this high risk area.  Automatic mobilisation of resources from all three firefighting agencies has been developed.  Between 1 December and 31 March each year, response to all bushfires includes representation from DFES, Department of Parks and Wildlife, volunteer Bushfire Brigades, volunteer Fire and Rescue Brigades and water bombers.  Agreed protocols have been developed to ensure command and control arrangements are established at all fires.

New Gazetted Fire Districts:

Additional Gazetted Fire Districts have been developed in strategic locations.  Bushfire Brigades in these areas have transitioned to become dual registered and have been provided with extra structural firefighting and breathing apparatus training.  New firefighting appliances and facilities have been provided to these brigades.

Incident Control Centres:

Level 2 and Level 3 incidents require significant co-ordination and a facility such as an Incident Control Centre (ICC) to meet the needs of the Incident Management Team (IMT).  Two ICCs have been established in these areas to meet these needs.

Additional Support:

Two DFES Area Officers are now located in the district to support volunteers with training and response.