Bushfires and your water supply
Parts of our service region have been identified as high fire danger areas by the Country Fire Authority (CFA).
While we are prepared for bushfire emergencies, we cannot guarantee to maintain pressure or an uninterrupted supply during, or following, a fire.
During a bushfire, or on declared extreme fire risk days, we may not be able to safely access water supplies or respond to system failures.
When preparing your fire plan, please consider an independent water supply.
During a bushfire, we are not able to guarantee your water supply and may not be able to access supplies safely.
Water quality
During a bushfire, we might need to bypass water treatment facilities to maintain water pressure and/or supply. If this occurs, water will need to be boiled before drinking. We will endeavour to notify you via local and social media should action be necessary.
We recommend keeping a supply of drinking water, for instance jugs of water in your fridge, on high risk days or when bushfires are likely.
Independent water supplies
We urge customers, particularly those in fire-prone areas and on rural properties, to consider alternative water supplies as part of a fire plan.
Independent water supplies may include:
- water tanks
- dams
- swimming pools
- rubbish bins or wheelie bins
- bathtubs and laundry troughs
- "44 gallon" drums or similar.
Water restrictions
Any water restrictions that may be in force will be waived if fire threatens your property.
Pumping water
Consider a non-electrical pump because your electricity is not guaranteed during a bushfire.
Consult a pump specialist for suitable fire-fighting pumps and fittings required to protect your home.
Emergency contact numbers
- Emergency 000
- Victorian bushfire information line 1800 240 667
- VicRoads road closure information 13 11 70
- Wildlife rescue 1300 094 535
- State Emergency Service (SES) 13 25 00
Local radio
In the event of a bushfire, tune your radio to ABC local for the latest emergency information.
Social media
In the event of a bushfire, follow the CFA (Country Fire Authority) via their official social media channels.