TOTAL FIRE BANS

**Critical Fire Safety Advisory for Australia**

Date: November 20, 2023

In Australia, the implementation of a Total Fire Ban (TFB) is crucial for public safety. During a TFB, any open-air burning or activities that might ignite a fire are strictly prohibited. This includes both prescribed and non-prescribed activities under the Bush Fires Regulations 1954. While some activities may still be permissible during a TFB, they must strictly adhere to specific conditions outlined in the regulations.

Exemptions for certain non-prescribed activities may be granted to businesses, public entities, or industries, but only if stringent safety measures are in place to prevent fire outbreaks. Detailed guidelines on these exemptions are available for reference.

TFBs are typically declared on days with a high risk of fires posing a threat to life and property. This risk is often due to extreme fire weather conditions or when existing fires are widespread, stretching firefighting resources thin. It’s also possible for TFBs to be declared outside the traditional fire season, for instance, in months like May or June, when unusual weather patterns, such as higher temperatures and strong winds, occur.

Important Reminder from the Department of Fire and Emergency Services WA: With the current heat wave expected to continue through the Christmas period, remember that charcoal BBQs, wood-fired pizza ovens, and any BBQ using an open flame are banned. However, gas BBQs and gas pizza ovens are permitted.

Be aware that using any solid fuel-powered cooking device, such as wood, briquettes, pellets, or charcoal barbecues, smokers, or cookers, is not allowed in partially enclosed spaces like patios or pergolas. Businesses may have exceptions to these rules, but specific criteria must be met. For more information, contact the DFES.

**Safety Note:** If using a cooker in an enclosed space, ensure there is ample ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. Do not use these devices in poorly ventilated areas.

For the latest updates and detailed information, visit the Western Australia emergency website:

– Total Fire Bans Information](https://www.emergency.wa.gov.au/#totalfirebans-tomorrow)
– WA Emergency Website](https://www.emergency.wa.gov.au/)

Adherence to these fire safety regulations is crucial for your safety and the safety of others. – Ross, BARBITEC

Author: BSAA Admin

BSAA was set up by Ross Yarranton as an ‘add-on’ to his BBQ Consulting and repair business Barbitec.com.au owing to the many calls he was getting from all parts of Australia for similar BBQ services that are provided by Companies in Perth Western Australia. ‘Where can I get my BBQ fixed?’- NSW ‘Can this BBQ be converted to Natural Gas?’- Brisbane ‘Do you sell BBQ Spare Parts?’- Melbourne ‘Can you come out and service my BBQ as the ignitions don’t work?’ – Sydney ‘Where can I get my BBQ cleaned?’- Perth WA …and the list goes on.. So, he decided to set up a business that works on a map location basis that enables customers to easily find the right person in their area or State that can help. You can find them by Location or Service. These may be multiple businesses that may provide the same service but are good enough to be in the ‘Alliance’ to give more choice.. Businesses are picked by their own reviews and their BBQ expertise or if they are service agents for any BBQ Manufacturers like Barbeques Galore or GasMate etc., New businesses can also join via the website but are vetted by...