The Australian Capital Territory has declared its first total fire ban in six years, with the prohibition to come into force across the entire region this Saturday, January 10. The emergency measure responds to a dangerous combination of extreme heatwave conditions and strong, gusty winds forecast to create severe bushfire risk.
Extreme Conditions Prompt Precautionary Ban
The total fire ban will be active from 12:01 am on Saturday, January 10, until 11:59 pm the same day. ACT Rural Fire Service Chief Officer Rohan Scott stated the decision was based on weather predictions indicating any fire ignition would be exceptionally difficult to control and could spread with alarming speed.
"This precaution is about protecting lives, property and our environment," Chief Officer Scott said. He called on every resident in the ACT to follow the ban strictly, remain informed through official channels, and report any signs of fire immediately to emergency services. "Your vigilance today can prevent a disaster tomorrow," he emphasised.
Heightened Risk Following Recent Fires and Smoke
The declaration follows an already active start to the fire season for the territory. Four separate bushfires burned through sections of Namadgi National Park over the New Year period, keeping firefighters busy for several days. Furthermore, on Thursday, smoke from large blazes burning along the Victorian and New South Wales border drifted over the capital, noticeably dimming the sun and serving as a stark reminder of the proximity of the threat.
The last time authorities imposed a total fire ban in the ACT was in January 2020, during the catastrophic Black Summer bushfires that caused significant damage to Namadgi National Park.
What the Total Fire Ban Means for Residents
Under a declared TOBAN, all open-air fires are strictly prohibited. High-risk activities including welding, grinding, and using machinery that could spark, such as lawn mowers or slashers, are also not permitted unless a specific exemption has been granted. All previously issued fire permits are automatically suspended for the ban's duration.
There are specific allowances for cooking. Gas or electric barbeques may be used only if they are under constant adult supervision, are clear of all flammable materials for at least three metres, and have a working hose or fire extinguisher on hand. In public parks and reserves, electric BBQs will remain operational, but all public gas barbecues will be switched off for safety.
The ACT Parks and Conservation Service has closed several high-risk sites for the day. While most campgrounds will stay open, the gas barbecues at these sites will be disabled. Only electric barbecues provided at campgrounds will be available for use.
Calls for Community Preparedness and Vigilance
With extreme temperatures, possible further smoke haze, and several large events scheduled in Canberra over the weekend, emergency officials are urging the community to take the situation seriously. Residents are strongly advised to review their bushfire survival plans, ensure their properties are clear of flammable debris, and monitor the ACT Emergency Services Agency (ESA) website for the latest alerts and information.
Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services, Dr Marisa Paterson, echoed the safety message. She said the ban was a critical reminder for people to prepare. Dr Paterson also praised the ongoing work of the Emergency Services Agency. "Their planning, training and resourcing give me confidence that teams are ready to respond quickly and effectively when our community needs them," the Minister stated.
