Port Denison bushfire: Emergency threat eases as residents warned it’s still not safe to return home

People south of Dongara have been told the bushfire threat bearing down on them has eased, although they have been warned it is not safe to return.

The bushfire emergency has been unfolding since Friday afternoon, threatening lives and homes and prompting dozens of firefighters from battling flames that have come dangerously close to properties in Port Denison and Springfield.

Just after 7.40pm on Saturday, the threat was downgraded with a series of watch and act alerts in place. The areas affected include people bound by Springfield Drive, the railway line, Beekeepers Nature Reserve and Kailis Drive, between Kailis Drive and the railway line and Springfield Drive, north of Sheoak Road and Mallee Road.

“The alert level for this fire has been downgraded as fire activity has decreased,” the Department of Fire and Emergency Services alert warned.

“There is a possible threat to lives and homes as a fire is burning in the area and conditions are changing.”

During the day, aerial support assisted about 70 firefighters who are on the ground battling the blaze.

The evacuation centre at the Irwin Recreation Centre has been closed. Residents in the area are advised that backburning operations are still taking place and may produce smoke.

The latest DFES update stated the bushfire was stationary, but not contained or controlled. About 515 hectares have been burnt to date.

Western Power are reporting 30 homes are without power due to the bushfire.

Locals have been advised that Dongara Health Centre is closed. If you require urgent medical assistance, call triple-0. For health support or to speak with a registered nurse call 1800 MEDICARE (1800 022 222).

WHAT TO DO

• If you have left the area, it is unsafe to return due to fallen trees, fallen powerlines and other dangers created by the fire.
• If you have remained in the area, stay alert and monitor your surroundings as conditions could change.
• If you are actively defending your property, continue to patrol and put out spot fires.
• Keep doors and windows closed, and evaporative air conditioners turned off with water running through the system if possible.
• Be patient and follow the directions of emergency services.

Bushfire updates can be found at Emergency WA.