Home
updated

Scotsdale bushfire: Watch and act alert downgraded to advice for out of control blaze near Denmark

Headshot of Eliza Kavanagh
Eliza KavanaghAlbany Advertiser
CommentsComments
A bushfire near Denmark was downgraded to advice.
Camera IconA bushfire near Denmark was downgraded to advice. Credit: Emergency WA

Firefighters have contained an out-of-control bushfire in Scotsdale with emergency services downgrading the warning level to advice.

Two water bombers were sent in on Wednesday afternoon to assist 50 firefighters on the ground of the out-of-control and unpredictable bushfire about 10 minutes west of Denmark.

The blaze was first reported at 2.45pm on Wednesday with six appliances on the scene by about 3pm and the Department of Fire and Emergency Services issuing a watch and act alert at 4.43pm.

People in the area were told to monitor conditions and leave if it was safe to do so via Scotsdale Road as the fire moved slowly in a north-westerly direction.

Fifty bushfire service firefighters actively fought the fire amid a possible threat to lives and homes, bringing the blaze under control within a couple of hours.

By 6.48pm, DFES had downgraded the warning level to advice, confirming there was no longer a threat to lives and homes.

The fire is stationery with about 40 fireys still on the scene, patrolling the area, mopping up and strengthening containment lines.

Aerial crews, which cannot operate at night, were released but will return at first light if needed.

The affected area is bounded by Scotsdale, Walter, Glenrowan and Roberts roads.

Roads remain open but motorists are advised to avoid the area and drive carefully.

The Shire of Denmark is managing the fire with the support of the Parks and Wildlife Service on the scene.

Visit Emergency WA, call 13 DFES (13 3337), follow DFES on Facebook, listen to ABC Local Radio, 6PR, or news bulletins.

WHAT TO DO

  • Continue to stay alert and monitor your surroundings.
  • Watch for signs of a bushfire, especially smoke and flames.
  • Be aware of other potential dangers such as falling trees and damaged properties and infrastructure.
  • Close all doors and windows and stay inside if smoke is causing you concern.

If driving

  • Turn your headlights on and drive slowly.
  • Watch for emergency services personnel and follow their directions.
  • If you cannot see clearly, pull over, keep your headlights and hazard lights on, and wait until the smoke clears.
  • If you have a respiratory condition and you have been affected by smoke you should contact your local doctor or call Health Direct on 1800 022 222.

Get the latest news from thewest.com.au in your inbox.

Sign up for our emails