A BUSHFIRE watch and act has been issued for east of the Murray River in Meelon in the Shire of Murray.
The warning has been issued for people bounded by the Murray River, Coolup Road East, Burn Side Road and Pinjarra-Williams Road, including the Murray Hills Estate in Meelon in the Shire of Murray.
There is a possible threat to lives and homes as a fire is approaching the area and conditions are changing.
The fire is out of control and unpredictable and is burning in heavy fuel loads along the banks of the Murray River and is moving slowly in a north north easterly direction.
People need to leave or get ready to actively defend.
Approximately 30 Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service and Bush Fire Service firefighters are actively fighting the fire and protecting houses in Coolup Road East.
Aerial support has been sent to assist ground crews.
Go to dfes.wa.gov.au, call 13 DFES (13 3337), follow DFES on Twitter @dfes_wa for more information.
WHAT TO DO:
• If you are not prepared or you plan to leave, leave now if the way is clear.
• There is ember attack ahead of the fire, so close all doors and windows, and turn off evaporative air conditioners, but keep water running through the system if possible.
• If you are well prepared and plan to actively defend your home, make final preparations now.
• Do not rely on mains water pressure as it may be affected. If you have access to a water tank and plan to defend your home, start patrolling with your hose and put out spot fires.
• If you are not at home, do not try to return as conditions in the area could be very dangerous.
SAFER PLACE:
• Your safest option may be to visit family or friends who live away from the area.