Emergency Warning: Bushfire evacuates Boddington Gold Mine workers and residents

A Boddington blaze has been upgraded to an emergency warning with those in the area urged to leave now as there is a threat to lives and homes.

The bushfire at Boddington Gold Mine was upgraded just before 4.30pm due to the blaze being out of control and moving in a north westerly direction.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services urged those in Boddington Gold Mine, which is in Bannister and Boddington, to leave in a southerly direction on Gold Mine Road.

“You are in danger and need to act immediately to survive,” the warning read.

“There is a threat to lives and homes.”

Around 300ha have been burnt so far.

WHAT TO DO

• If the way is clear, leave now for a safer place. This may be with family or friends away from the area.
• If it is safe to do so, leave in a southerly direction on Gold Mine Road.
• Do not wait and see, leaving at the last minute could put your life in danger.
• Take your emergency kit with you.
• If you become stuck in your car, park away from bushes, cover yourself with a woollen blanket, get onto the floor as the windows may break from the intense heat.
• 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.
• You must shelter before the fire arrives, as the extreme heat will kill you before the flames reach you.
• Go to a room in your home where you can shelter from the approaching fire.
• The room should have running water, such as a kitchen or laundry, and have a clear exit so you can easily escape.
• If you are not at home, it is too dangerous to return.

A Watch and Act warning is in place for an area surrounding the Boddington Gold Mine.