Australia's Fire Danger Ratings have been updated

13 October 2022

The Australian Fire Danger Rating System is a nationwide system used to warn communities about the risk of potential fires in an area on any given day.

This rating system has recently been updated to reflect the latest in fire prediction research.

Now, there are four danger ratings instead of six. These levels are Moderate, High, Extreme and Catastrophic.

When there is little to no risk, such as when it is raining, the rating system will simply say ‘no rating’.

The higher the Fire Danger Rating, the more dangerous the potential fire could be.

Use the Fire Danger Ratings to keep informed about the potential for fires in your area, and to activate your Bushfire Survival Plan.

You can check the daily fire danger rating on the RFS website, in the Fires Near Me NSW smartphone app, or look out for Fire Danger Rating roadside signs in your area.

The new ratings and what they mean:

Catastrophic – For your survival, leave bushfire risk areas

Extreme – Take action now to protect your life and property

High – Be ready to act

Moderate – Be ready to act

No rating – No action needs to be taken

For more information on the Fire Danger Rating System: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/plan-and-prepare/fire-danger-ratings