Know the warnings

During a bushfire, Alert Levels are used to provide you with an indication of the level of threat from the fire. It is important to know what each level means, how they are related and what you know to do in each situation.  

The NSW RFS follows the Australian Warning System (AWS) to issue one of three bushfire alerts – advice, watch and act, or emergency – based on the expected consequences and the actions the community should take. The level of threat posed to the community determines the level of warning. 

Advice (Yellow) 

A fire has started. There is no immediate danger. Stay updated in case the situation changes. 

Watch and Act (Orange) 

There is a heightened level of threat. Conditions are changing, and you must start acting now to protect yourself and your family. 

Emergency Warning (Red) 

The highest level of bushfire alert. You may be in danger and need to act immediately. Any delay now puts your life at risk.  

Remember – don’t wait for a warning. Some fires start and spread so quickly that there may not be time for a warning. If you get a bushfire alert, please take it seriously.