Every summer, as the weather becomes hotter and vegetation dries out, our region experiences a high fire danger period.
Western Water is preparing for the bushfire season
Western Water is preparing for the bushfire season by readying our people and our pipe networks to cope with extreme conditions. Our initiatives include:
- Back up generators at key sites, including major pumping stations and water sources
- Dedicated transportable generators on standby
- A minimum of 60% capacity maintained in reservoirs in the high risk fire areas of Macedon Ranges
- Storage tank levels targeted to be at 85% minimum capacity throughout summer in readiness for sudden increases in demand
- Water carters on standby to transport emergency water supplies
- Town protection plans developed in collaboration with the CFA
- Public education campaign in collaboration with the CFA.
The commissioning of a $2.35 million storage tank at Loch Road, Mount Macedon, will increase storage capacity sevenfold, from 450,000 litres to 3.5 million litres. The new tank will allow for additional amounts of water available for fire fighting purposes.
Despite these efforts, extreme circumstances may prevent Western Water's ability to maintain water pressure or an uninterrupted water supply during a bushfire.
Loss of electricity may cause our pumps, which transfer water across the region, to fail.
Extreme increased demand for water from residents and the CFA during a bushfire may cause a reduction in pressure throughout our pipe networks.
We recommend you consult the CFA about preparing your family and home for a bushfire.
Further information
Western Water is preparing for the bushfire season
How Western Water is working with the CFA
Additional information and contacts
Bushfires and your water supply brochure