Dalyup emergency bushfire: Residents told to leave now to survive as unpredictable blaze threatens homes

Firefighters are battling a raging bushfire in the Goldfields-Esperance region, with residents urged to act now to survive.

Properties are under threat in Dalyup, about 25 minutes west of Esperance, after a fire was sparked amid hot, dry conditions.

People between Dalyup River, Chartwell Lane, Telegraph Road and Murray Road in Dalyup have been told to leave immediately as the unpredictable blaze advances at pace in a south-westerly direction.

“You are in danger and need to act immediately to survive. There is a threat to lives and homes,” the Department of Fire and Emergency Services alert said.

“Property is under threat by fire now.”

The fire was reported just after 2.30pm on Friday afternoon as temperatures exceeded 40C, with wind gusts up to 41km/h recorded at 3.30pm.

The blaze remains out-of-control as the heatwave conditions paired with fierce winds make fireys’ jobs all the more difficult.

Watch and act advice is in place for people between Dalyup River and McCall Road. People in this area are being advised to leave now if that is their plan, or get ready to defend their properties.

WHAT TO DO:

• If the way is clear, leave now for a safer place. This may be with family or friends away from the area.
• If it is safe to do so, for those on Murray Road, head east along Telegraph Road or South Coast Highway.
• Do not wait and see, leaving at the last minute could put your life in danger.
• Take your emergency kit with you.
• If you become stuck in your car, park away from bushes, cover yourself with a woollen blanket, get onto the floor as the windows may break from the intense heat.
• Close all doors and windows and turn off evaporative air conditioners but keep water running through the system if possible.
• If you cannot leave, you need to get ready to shelter in your home.
• You must shelter before the fire arrives, as the extreme heat will kill you before the flames reach you.
• Go to a room in your home where you can shelter from the approaching fire.
• The room should have running water, such as a kitchen or laundry, and have a clear exit so you can easily escape.
• If you are not at home, it is too dangerous to return.