In light of recent events, Independent Member for Alfred Cove, Dr Janet Woollard is urging the community to be aware of fire and cyclone risks this summer.

“Having faced one of the driest winters in WA’s history, the State is facing one of its worst bushfire seasons,” said Dr Woollard.

“The Fire and Emergency Services Authority of WA (FESA) has previously advised that the bushfire season is ahead by six weeks, and recent bushfires are evidence of this.

“Families holidaying in Western Australia during the summer should acquaint themselves with bushfire alert levels and how to react should they encounter a bushfire while driving.”

Dr Woollard said in addition to bushfires, WA is facing a very active tropical cyclone season this year.

“Cyclones generally occur between November and April each year,” said Dr Woollard.

“The Bureau of Meteorology has predicted there could be six or seven cyclones off WA’s northwest coast during this season,” said Dr Woollard.

“The Bureau issues cyclone advice to the public, which would be followed by FESA’s community alerts to help communities keep safe.

“Again, it is important for constituents to be aware of these advises and alerts if they are planning to travel near cyclone prone areas of WA.”

Dr Woollard encourages the community to visit FESA’s website, www.fesa.wa.gov.au, to learn more about bushfires and cyclones and what to do when faced with such emergencies.

“The Minister for Emergency Services has given his assurance that all the State’s emergency management agencies are ready to respond to major incidents if they occur,” said Dr Woollard.