Derrimut fire today

Melbournalites were reminded of the devastation bushfires can wreak today when the Derrimut Grassland Reserve near the city's western suburbs caught fire.
The fire started just after 3pm, and quickly spread through the dry grass. The smoke was affecting residents in the nearby suburbs of Derrimut, St Albans, Cairnlea and Sunshine West. At one stage, a plume of smoke was so thick, it looked like a mushroom cloud.

Thankfully, the fire was brought under control by firefighters before it could cause any serious damage. However, it was a reminder of the importance of being prepared for bushfires.

make sure you have a bushfire survival plan
know what to do if you see a bushfire

The fire also caused some traffic disruptions in the area. The Western Ring Road was closed in both directions for a time, and there were delays on the Calder Freeway.

The cause of the fire is still being investigated.

If you see a bushfire, report it to the fire brigade immediately. Call 000.

For more information on bushfires, visit the Country Fire Authority website: https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/