Regional Western Australian communities will be safer and better prepared in times of emergency, thanks to a State Government initiative to install hundreds of new fire hydrants across the State.
Member for North West Central Vince Catania MLA said the State Government would roll out 395 new fire hydrants across 26 regional towns in the coming months.
“These new fire hydrants are part of a $12.5 million program to install an extra 2,900 fire hydrants across WA over five years,” Vince said.
“Around 1,100 new fire hydrants have already been installed since the program began in 2015 in both the metropolitan and regional areas.”
Communities in North West Central which will be receiving new fire hydrants include Carnarvon, Coral Bay, Denham, Exmouth and Onslow.
The new hydrant locations were identified by Water Corporation and the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) following a review of the State’s fire hydrant network, which identified gaps.
“Water Corporation has consulted with Main Roads WA and DFES to determine the best possible locations for the new hydrants,” Vince said.
“House fires and bushfires can spread incredibly quickly. Increased access to fire hydrants will make the job easier for emergency services and will make communities safer.”
Water Corporation will also install 177 new hydrants in 15 suburbs in the Perth Hills.
Minister for Water, Mia Davies MLA, reminded residents living in high bushfire risk areas that they should still have an independent water supply if they choose to stay and actively defend their home during a bushfire.
“While Water Corporation will do all it can to maintain scheme water during a bushfire, damaged infrastructure or a cut to power may result in a total loss of public water supplies,” Ms Davies said.
For more information about the program visit Water Corporations website: www.watercorporation.com.au/fire-hydrant-infill-program.
