Perths east gets 177 fire hydrants to fight bushfires

• 177 fire hydrants installed across Perth's east

• Part of a broader $12.5 million program to install 2,900 extra hydrants across WA

Suburbs in Perth's east have received an extra 177 fire hydrants as part of a five-year, $12.5 million State-wide fire hydrant program.

Additional fire hydrants were installed over five months in Bellevue, Forrestfield, Greenmount, High Wycombe, Maida Vale, Midvale, Mount Richon, Mundijong, Serpentine, Wattle Grove and Wungong.

Dwellingup also received an extra 11 fire hydrants as part of the program.

The Water Corporation, in consultation with the Department of Fire and Emergency Services, Main Roads WA and local government authorities, determined the best locations for the new fire hydrants.

When installing these extra hydrants, the Water Corporation used a technology known as 'live tapping' so this work could be carried out without disrupting water supply to nearby homes.

For more information about the program, visit http://www.watercorporation.com.au/fire-hydrant-infill-program

Comments attributed to Water Minister Dave Kelly:

"About 2,000 new fire hydrants have now been installed since the program began, in both metropolitan and regional areas.

"The installation of these hydrants are a reminder for residents that during a bushfire, if you choose to stay and defend your home you must have an independent water supply.

"While the Water Corporation will do all it can to maintain scheme water supply during a bushfire, damaged water infrastructure or a cut to power may result in a total loss of public water supply during the bushfire.

"Make sure your home is prepared for a bushfire, including having an independent water supply, by visiting https://www.emergency.wa.gov.au/prepare"