WA residents warned - don't risk your life relying on scheme water during a bushfire

Water Corporation is urging residents across Western Australia who live in bushfire-prone areas to prepare early for the upcoming fire season and ensure they have an independent water supply if planning to stay and defend their property.

Bushfires can damage water infrastructure and cause power outages, which may result in scheme water stopping without warning. High demand during emergencies can also reduce water pressure and quickly deplete local tanks, even in areas far from the fire front.

A Water Corporation spokesperson said leaving early remains the safest option, but those who choose to stay must be fully prepared.

“Our water network is designed to supply drinking water to the community, not to fight bushfires,” the spokesperson said.

“Defending a property requires more planning and equipment than many people realise, including an independent water supply of at least 20,000 litres and a generator with enough fuel to operate a pump.”

The Bureau of Meteorology’s summer outlook forecasts hot and dry conditions across much of the State. Following a wet winter, increased fuel loads combined with low rainfall and above-average temperatures mean residents are encouraged to act early.

Water Corporation undertakes year-round activities to reduce risk to critical infrastructure, including clearing land and access tracks around pump stations, storage sites and catchments, and maintaining standby generators and emergency water carters. However, during a bushfire, it may not be safe for crews to access or repair damaged assets.

For more information on how bushfires can affect water supply, visit watercorporation.com.au and search ‘bushfire’.