Emergency warning issued as Aubin Grove bushfire threatens lives and homes in Cockburn

Residents have been warned it is too late to evacuate their homes that are in the path of an out-of-control bushfire that is threatening lives and properties in Perth’s southern suburbs.

People living in or around Prosperity Loop in Aubin Grove — surrounded by the Jandakot Regional Park — are being told by authorities they need to find shelter from the flames inside their homes.

It is understood an Atwell Buggles daycare centre was forced to evacuate as the fire escalated into an emergency warning about 3pm this afternoon.

About 60 volunteer and career firefighter — supported by water bombers — are currently on the ground battling the blaze.

The fire is moving in a north easterly direction, is out of control and unpredictable, according to authorities.

An emergency bushfire emergency warning for parts of Atwell, Aubin Grove and Banjup was issued about 3pm on Tuesday.

“You are in danger and need to act immediately to survive. There is a threat to lives and homes,” the warning reads.

The warning is in place for people in the area bounded by Lyon Road, Euphony Way, Beenyup Road and Freycinet Court in Atwell, Aubin Grove and Banjup in City of Cockburn.

WHAT TO DO

For people in homes on and nearby Prosperity Loop, it’s too late to leave, leaving now would be deadly.

You need to shelter in your home in a room away from the fire front and make sure you can easily escape.

You must shelter before the fire arrives, as the extreme heat will kill you well before the flames reach you.

Close all doors and windows and turn off evaporative air conditioners, but keep water running through the system if possible.

Choose a room with two exits and water such as a kitchen or laundry.

If your home catches on fire and the conditions inside become unbearable, you need to get out and go to an area that has already been burnt.

Protect yourself by wearing long sleeves and trousers, made from cotton or wool, and strong leather boots.

All other people in the warning area, If the way is clear, leave now for a safer place.

Do not wait and see, leaving at the last minute is deadly.

Close all doors and windows and turn off evaporative air conditioners, but keep water running through the system if possible.

If you cannot leave, you need to get ready to shelter in your home.

Go to a room in your home away from the fire front and make sure you can easily escape.

Choose a room with two exits and water such as a kitchen or laundry.

If you are not at home, it’s too dangerous to return.

ROAD CLOSURES AND CONDITIONS

Avoid the area and be aware of fire and emergency services personnel working on site.

A number of roads have been closed including Gibbs Road between Tapper Road and Lyon Road as well as Lyon Road between Aubin Grove Link and Gibbs Road.

Motorists are asked to avoid the area, reduce speed and drive carefully due to smoke.

Keep up to date at: emergency.wa.gov.au