Bushfire banner

Bushfire readiness and water supply

Fire truck

The Country Fire Authority (CFA) lists parts of our service region as areas of high fire danger.

We are prepared for bushfires and extreme conditions, and have plans in place to protect our water supply, however it is important to remember that the drinking water supply is not intended to provide fire-fighting capability, and we cannot guarantee water pressure or an uninterrupted water supply in the event of a bushfire.

During a major fire or on days with an extreme or catastrophic fire danger rating, our teams are on standby to repair water mains and hydrants; however, it may not be safe for us to enter a bushfire zone to manage or repair our network.

Download our Bushfire preparation flyer here.

How we prepare for the fire danger period:

  • Dedicated portable generators on standby, to return power quickly to fire-damaged pumping stations and water sources
  • Installed deluge systems at our key sewerage pumping stations and treatment facilities
  • Water carters on standby to transport emergency water supplies

Despite these efforts, extreme circumstances may prevent Westernport Water from maintaining water pressure or an uninterrupted water supply during a bushfire.

Trees-fire

How can a bushfire impact my water supply?

  • Extreme, increased demand for water from residents and the CFA during a bushfire may result in reduced pressure or a total loss of water. This may impact on your ability to fight fires as well.
  • Loss of electricity may cause loss of power to our pumps, which transfer water across the region. It might be a while before we’re able to get backup generators in place.
  • If a fire affects our infrastructure, we can’t guarantee we will be able to fix it immediately, or guarantee continuity of supply. If this happens, we’ll work with affected residents to provide an alternate supply or advice on what they can do.
  • If there is a serious bushfire, it may affect the quality of your drinking water. We recommend boiling your drinking water during and after a bushfire until we can confirm it’s safe – we’ll also provide advice to affected residents as soon as we can.
water tank with fire pump

What you can do:

We recommend you consult the CFA about preparing your family and home for a bushfire. Visit the CFA website or call 1800 240 667 for more information.

The CFA recommends residents who choose to stay and defend their property have:

  • a pre-prepared and carefully considered bushfire plan
  • at least 10,000 litres of water
  • firefighting hoses
  • a generator to pump water.

Independent water supplies

If you intent to defend your property, be prepared with another water source if town water becomes limited or unavailable.

An independent water supply, such as water tanks, provides the best chance of defending your property in a bushfire.

Pumping water

Consult a pump specialist for suitable fire-fighting pumps and fittings required to protect your home.

Consider a non-electrical pump as your power is not guaranteed during a bushfire (but also be mindful of the risks associated with flammable fuels).

Adopt a fire hydrant near your home

You can also help by ‘adopting’ a fire hydrant near your home. It is essential that firefighters have quick and easy access to hydrants for water during a bushfire. You can help keep the hydrant nearest your property clear, visible and accessible at all times by:

  • clearing soil grass and shrubs from around the hydrant
  • keeping vehicles clear of the hydrant; and
  • reporting any visible faults, damage or missing markers to your local Council or Westernport Water on 1300 720 711

Phone numbers

CFA
Emergency Management Victoria logo

Websites

Social Media

For emergency updates, follow the CFA (Country Fire Authority) and Emergency Victoria via their official social media channels.

Smartphone apps

Download the VicEmergency app to your compatible smartphone or tablet.