6.30pm UPDATE: The Mernda grassfire has been downgraded to an Advice Warning.
The CFA issued this Advice message for Mernda.
This Advice message replaces the Watch and Act issued at 4.29pm.
- The grassfire at Brunton Drive, Masons Road and Everard Road areas in Mernda is now under control.
- Fire fighters remain on scene to extinguish any hot spots over the next few hours.
There is currently no threat to you, but you should stay informed and monitor conditions.
6.00pm LIVE: The Country Fire Authority have issued a Watch and Act for a grassfire in Mernda. 38 fire trucks have been dispatched to the scene.
- There is a grassfire at Brunton Drive and Masons Road, Mernda that is not yet under control
- This grassfire is travelling in a north-easterly direction NOT south-westerly direction as advised earlier.
- Residents in the areas of Brunton Drive and Masons Road need to move back two streets.
If you live directly next to grassland, quickly move two or more streets away from the fire. Grass fires are unlikely to spread past the first row of houses.
What you should do:
If you live next to grasslands:
- When you leave remember to take your pets, medications, mobile phone and charger.
- Keep the roads clear so emergency services can respond.
- If you are away from home do not return. Travel to the home of family or friends that are away from the warning area.
If you live two or more streets away from the grassland you should shelter indoors:
- Bring your pets indoors.
- Close all exterior doors, windows and vents.
- Turn off cooling systems.
- Monitor conditions.
The next update is expected by 20/02/2019 08:30 pm or as the situation changes.
If you can smell smoke, please note:
- Smoke can affect people’s health.
- People with heart or lung conditions (including asthma), children, pregnant women and older people are more sensitive to the effects of breathing in smoke.
- People with existing heart or lung conditions (including asthma) should follow the treatment plan advised by the doctor.
Health information:
- If you need medical advice for burns or exposure to smoke, seek medical advice or call Nurse on Call on 1300 606 024.
- Anyone experiencing wheezing, chest tightness and difficulty breathing should call Triple Zero (000).
If you cannot smell smoke you are not likely to be exposed to smoke and it will therefore not affect you.
Use multiple sources to stay informed:
- www.emergency.vic.gov.au.
- VicEmergency Hotline – freecall 1800 226 226.
- VicEmergency app.
- Facebook or Twitter (#vicfires).
- Tune in to ABC Local Radio, commercial and designated community radio stations, or Sky News TV.
Accessibility:
The following services can help you, or someone you know, access information during an emergency.
- To access this information in other languages call the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450 (freecall) and ask them to call VicEmergency Hotline.
- If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech/communication impairment contact National Relay Service on 1800 555 677 and ask them to call the VicEmergency Hotline.
