With fire danger season arriving, Yarra Valley Water is urging Yarra Ranges residents in grass fire and bushfire-prone areas to include a water supply in their emergency plan.
Even with recent rain, the Country Fire Authority (CFA) has stated this year’s fire season could be the most dangerous since the 2009 Black Saturday fires. This is part of a trend of fire seasons starting earlier and lasting longer due to changing weather patterns.
The fire danger period comes into effect in some local government areas across the Yarra Valley Water service area from 17 November and could continue through to May 2026.
High-risk fire areas in Yarra Valley Water’s service area include the shires of Yarra Ranges, Nillumbik, Cardinia, Mitchell, and Murrindindi, and the cities of Hume, Whittlesea, Banyule, Manningham, and Maroondah.
Asset services general manager Bridie Fennessy said a reliable water supply cannot be guaranteed during a fire and preparation is crucial.
“We all know grass fires and bushfires can happen at any time, with the potential to devastate properties and damage water pipes and tanks,” Ms Fennessy said.
“During a fire, our customers could experience low water pressure, loss of supply or reduced water quality. This could be due to equipment damage due to heat or fire, high demand for water from firefighters, or power outages” she said.
Yarra Valley Water works with other agencies to prepare for the fire season and Ms Fennessy said the water corporation wants everyone in its service area to be ready too.
“We urge everyone to include drinking water in their emergency kit. And if you intend to defend your property, you need an independent water supply because you won’t be able to rely on mains water during a fire,” Ms Fennessy said.
The Country Fire Authority and Fire Rescue Victoria recommend you have an independent water supply of at least 10,000 litres and a non mains reliant pump if you are intending to stay and fight a fire.
Ms Fennessy said it is also important for customers to update their contact details with a mobile phone number for SMS updates during an emergency that affects water supplies.
“If a fire affects our service area, we’ll work with emergency services and communities to share information about accessing alternative drinking water supplies. If we have your mobile number, we can keep you updated with issues affecting your water supply,” she said.
Yarra Valley Water customers can update their details at yvw.com.au/mydetails
For more information about preparing for fires and your water supply – including quick links to CFA and Fire Rescue Victoria Fire Ready and Fire Survival guides – visit yvw.com.au/bushfireinfo
