Bushfire Report · MCU26/0104

Bushfire Report




5.     Bushfire Management Plan
This Bushfire Management Plan (BMP) identifies the bushfire protection measures
that should be implemented as part of the proposed development to manage and to
reduce the risk from bushfire to an acceptable level. It is important to understand the
processes that influence bushfire behaviour and the sources of damage that threaten
people and property.

5.1    Bushfire Behaviours
Understanding bushfire behaviour is crucial when planning development on bushfire
prone land to effectively mitigate the risks associated with bushfires. Three primary
elements significantly influence bushfire behaviour, as follows:

     5.1.1 Topography

The physical characteristics of the landscape significantly influence bushfire
behaviour. It is well-established that fires tend to spread more rapidly when they
move uphill. This is because flames can easily access unburnt fuel ahead of the fire,
which is pre-heated by radiant heat, making it more combustible. Studies indicate
that for every 10-degree increase in slope, the fire's speed can double. For example,
if a fire is moving at a rate of 5 km per hour on flat ground, and it encounters a 10-
degree slope, its speed can double to 10 km per hour uphill. As the fire gains
momentum, it also increases in intensity, becoming even hotter.

Conversely, when a fire moves downhill, its speed decreases because the flames
have less fuel to consume, and radiant heat pre-heats less fuel in front of the fire.
For every 10-degree decrease in slope, the fire's speed is halved. It is important to
note that fires typically move more slowly as the slope declines.

     5.1.2 Weather Conditions

Weather conditions are a major factor in the behaviour and spread of bushfires. Hot,
dry, and windy conditions can make fires more intense and difficult to control, while
cooler and more humid conditions can slow their spread. Wind can also influence the
direction and speed of the fire, and changes in wind direction can make it more
difficult for firefighters to predict the fire's behaviour. Weather forecasting is a critical
component of bushfire management, as it allows firefighters and other responders to
anticipate changes in fire behaviour and take action to mitigate the risks. In addition,
many communities now use tools like automated alert systems to warn residents of
potential fire danger based on weather conditions.

The new Australian Fire Danger Rating System (AFDRS) improves and simplifies the
reporting of fire danger. Fire danger ratings describe the potential level of danger
should a bushfire starts. It is a valuable information for taking actions to protect
people and property. The AFDRS has four levels, each with a distinct title, colour
and key message.
Max Bushfire Protection Consulting                                                    31