Quick response reduced risks

Traffic backed up for hundreds of metres on Thursday afternoon as flames took hold of bushland near the South West Health Campus and threatened Carey Park’s south west corner.

Threatening lives and homes, an ‘‘act and watch’’ was issued for people in the area as strong winds fanned the fire and conditions became increasingly unpredictable.

Reported shortly after 3.30, crews from the city’s career and volunteer fire and rescue services and bush fire service rushed to the fire which started in bush near Hay Park before jumping Bussell Highway and spreading to bushland near the health campus.

Police closed the highway between Robertson Drive and Washington Avenue, diverting traffic along Parade Road and Washington Avenue as smoke billowed across the road leaving hundreds of frustrated motorists at a standstill.

The fire was brought under control by 5pm and all roads were reopened shortly after.

The cause of the fire has not been determined, but is being investigated.

Regional director WA Country Health Service South West Grace Ley said safety procedures were quickly acted on and airconditioning turned down because of the smoke.

‘‘I congratulate the hospital staff on the way they reacted to this scary situation,’’ Ms Ley said.

‘‘Overall it was managed efficiently with emergency management plans in place if required.’’

Bunbury Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service captain John Kowal said there had been a risk embers would start spot fires around the area.

‘‘Although it’s not a huge area the potential for the fire to burn out of control was there but thanks to the quick response of fire services,it was brought under control,’’ Mr Kowal said.

A second fire started in bushland off Brittain road near Milligan Street at 6pm and was quickly extinguished by fire crews.