Residents across South Australia’s Mount Lofty Ranges, including the Adelaide Hills, Fleurieu Peninsula, and Kangaroo Island, are being urged to prepare for dangerous fire weather as the Country Fire Service (CFS) declares a Total Fire Ban for Christmas Day, December 25, 2024. With an extreme fire danger rating forecast for Region One, authorities warn that conditions could lead to fast-moving and devastating fires.

A Total Fire Ban will be in effect from midnight tonight until midnight tomorrow, prohibiting all outdoor fires, including those for cooking, campfires, and burn-offs. The declaration follows predictions of extreme weather conditions across the region, with high temperatures, strong winds, and low humidity creating a heightened risk of bushfires.

What Does a Total Fire Ban Mean?

A Total Fire Ban is implemented when weather conditions are so hazardous that any outdoor fire activity could trigger uncontrollable bushfires. The restrictions apply to all areas within Region One, which covers the Mount Lofty Ranges, including the Adelaide Hills, Fleurieu Peninsula, and Kangaroo Island.

On a Total Fire Ban Day:

Outdoor fires, including barbecues and campfires, are prohibited unless they comply with strict regulations.

Activities that may produce sparks, such as welding or grinding, should be avoided unless safety measures are in place.

All burn-offs must be fully extinguished before midnight tonight.

Residents are urged to familiarise themselves with the restrictions and avoid any activity that could pose a fire risk.

Understanding the Extreme Fire Danger Rating

The fire danger rating for the Mount Lofty Ranges has been classified as "Extreme." Under such conditions, bushfires can spread rapidly, are difficult to control, and can be life-threatening. Homes that are not well-prepared or actively defended may not offer safety during a fire, and essential services such as electricity and water may be disrupted.

For residents without a detailed Bushfire Survival Plan, leaving early before a fire starts is the safest option. Delaying evacuation could put lives at risk, particularly given the speed at which bushfires can develop under extreme conditions.

What Should Residents Do?

Implement your Bushfire Survival Plan, considering travel and visitors during the Christmas holiday.

Avoid all outdoor fire-related activities and adhere to fire ban regulations.

Prepare your property by removing flammable materials and ensuring access to firefighting equipment like hoses.

Stay informed by monitoring updates from the CFS.

Landowners should ensure compliance with local harvest codes of practice and extinguish any current burn-offs before midnight tonight. Agencies and businesses within the region are also being advised to activate their fire ban procedures.

Stay Informed

Residents can stay up-to-date with the latest information and advice by accessing official CFS channels:

CFS website: www.cfs.sa.gov.au

Information Hotline: 1800 362 361

Alert SA Mobile App and social media channels

Emergency broadcasts on local radio, including ABC and FIVEaa

Plan Ahead and Celebrate Safely

With high-risk conditions expected across Region One, which includes the Adelaide Hills, Fleurieu Peninsula, and Kangaroo Island, residents are urged to prioritise fire safety during their Christmas celebrations. Whether staying home or traveling, being proactive can make all the difference in ensuring safety for yourself and your loved ones. For emergencies, always call Triple Zero (000).