Parts of Goulburn Valley Water’s service area are identified as high fire danger areas by the Country Fire Authority (CFA).
While our teams do everything possible to prepare for emergencies, we cannot guarantee uninterrupted water supply or normal water pressure during a major fire.
How bushfires can affect water supply
During a major fire event, demand on the town water supply can exceed the capacity of the system. This may result in reduced water pressure and/or temporary loss of water supply.
Fires can also damage water infrastructure, disrupt electricity supply (which may affect pumped systems), and delay repairs until it is safe for crews to access affected areas.
If water supply is affected, we will work with impacted customers to provide advice and, where possible, an alternate supply.
What you can do to prepare
We encourage customers to consider water supply as part of their bushfire preparedness, particularly if you live in a rural or bushfire-prone area.
Some households choose to identify alternate or independent water sources as part of a broader fire plan. These may include:
- Water tanks
- Dams
- Swimming pools
- Stored water in suitable containers
On days of high, extreme or catastrophic fire danger, it can be helpful to have drinking water set aside in advance, stored in the fridge or a cool place, and to ensure you have access to water in the event of a supply disruption.
As a general guide, at least 10 litres (one bucket) per person is recommended as a minimum.
If you plan to use an independent water supply, you may also wish to consider how that water would be accessed, including whether a pump is required and whether it would operate during a power outage.
Your individual fire plan should identify reliable alternative water sources such as a large dam, irrigation channel or creek. Only residents who are fully prepared should consider staying to defend their property. Leaving early is the safest option.
For broader fire preparedness advice, visit the Country Fire Authority or VicEmergency.
Drinking water quality during and after a fire
In some circumstances, bushfires may affect drinking water quality.
If this occurs, we may advise customers to boil drinking water during and after a fire until safety can be confirmed. If boiling is not possible, alternative arrangements and advice will be provided where feasible.
We will communicate directly with affected communities as soon as information becomes available.
What we do
We prepare for bushfire season year-round by:
- Maintaining and monitoring our water supply networks
- Having plans in place for periods of high fire danger
- Preparing backup systems to minimise supply disruptions under normal conditions
During an emergency, we work closely with the CFA, emergency services and other agencies to provide firefighters with access to hydrants and water supply, support water carting where required, and carry out repairs as soon as it is safe to do so.
Stay informed
For current fire danger ratings, warnings and emergency information, stay up to date through the following official sources: