Recovery: What to do after a wildfire

After fire conditions have eased the situation could change quickly and get worse again.

Firefighters may still be working in the area.

• Do not fly drones around the fire. Drones affect aerial firefighting operations.

Some roads may still be closed because of fallen trees, branches, or powerlines or other damage.

Access may be restricted to residents only.

Some places may have no power.

Mobile phone and internet services might not work.

The ground in burnt areas could still be very hot.

Trees may be damaged by the fire and could fall or drop branches with no warning.

Fence posts and tree stumps may have burnt, leaving holes in the ground.

Your water tank could be contaminated by debris, ash, fire retardants or dead animals.

Smoke and the smell of burnt material may stay in the area for days or even weeks.

• Smoke can make it hard for some people to breathe.
• The smell of smoke can linger indoors and on furnishings and clothes.

Only return after emergency services have said it is safe to go back. Returning before the “all clear” has been given will put you in danger.

Stay informed because the situation can change quickly and get worse again. Listen to your local radio station and follow your local Fire and Emergency District Facebook page for updates on the situation.

Follow all instructions from emergency services.

Watch out for burnt trees, hot embers on the ground, fallen powerlines and holes created by burnt out tree stumps and fence posts.

• Treat all power lines as live.
• Treat all damaged trees as dangerous and avoid walking underneath them until they have been assessed by an arborist.

Wear strong boots and protective clothing.

If your water looks or tastes unusual then it is likely to be contaminated. Do not use the water for drinking or food preparation and do not give it to animals.

• Boiling water does not remove fire retardants or other chemicals from your water.
• Contact your local council’s environmental health officer for advice prior to using it for drinking or food preparation.
• If you collect water from your roof, only reconnect the downpipe after the roof has been cleaned and the downpipe thoroughly flushed.

Get professional advice about ventilating and cleaning if your home or belongings smell of smoke. It’s not uncommon after a wildfire for the smell of smoke or a smoky haze to remain for several days.

Find out what to do if your property is damaged.

When driving, respect all road signage and watch for hazards at all times. Watch out for firefighters still working in the area.

Some people may feel upset or unsafe returning after an evacuation. Seek support if you or your family are anxious, upset or feel uneasy about returning home.