VICTORIA’S fire danger ratings have changed in line with the nationwide system
Fire danger ratings provide information so that people can take action to protect themselves and others.
The higher the fire danger rating, the more dangerous the conditions, and the more difficult it will be to stop a fire if one starts.
The new system follows a survey, which found the majority of Australians did not understand the previous, 60-year-old fire danger rating system.
The new fire danger rating system uses four colour-coded levels and plain language to provide clear advice on what action communities need to take at each level.
The new system is based on enhanced technology and research that improves the ability to accurately predict fire behaviour and potential threat to the community.
As part of the changeover to the new system, all fire danger rating signs across Victoria will have a sticker placed over the sign to promote the new four-rating system while emergency services work to roll out the replacements of signs.
New signs will be installed progressively across Victoria from September 1, when the new system kicks in.
“The new fire danger rating system means that no matter where you live in Victoria or Australia, the same system will be in place. This is particularly important for our border communities and travellers,” Emergency Management commissioner Andrew Crisp said.
“The new system is based on Australia’s largest piece of social research – the community told us they want a simpler system that is easier to understand with clear actions at each level.”
