Breton Bay Bushfire Emergency: Residents Urged to Evacuate Immediately Near Lancelin
Breton Bay Bushfire: Residents Told to Evacuate Now Near Lancelin

Breton Bay Bushfire Emergency: Residents Urged to Evacuate Immediately Near Lancelin

Residents in Breton Bay, Karakin, and Ledge Point have been issued an urgent directive to act immediately to ensure their survival as a dangerous bushfire continues to burn south of Lancelin. The critical warning, issued by Emergency WA at 1:53 pm on February 18, 2026, emphasizes that lives and homes are under direct threat from the advancing flames.

Emergency Warning Details and Evacuation Instructions

The emergency warning specifically applies to the area bounded by Indian Ocean Drive, Kildare Road, Garbanup Road, Brockway Road, and McCormick Road. Authorities are urging people within this zone to evacuate without delay if it is safe to do so. Recommended evacuation routes include heading north via Indian Ocean Drive or east via Bennies Road.

Motorists travelling on Indian Ocean Drive between Bennies Road and Seabird Road are advised to stay highly alert, as fire conditions are rapidly changing and could pose additional hazards.

Critical Safety Advice for Residents

Emergency WA has provided detailed safety instructions for those in the affected areas:

  • If the way is clear, leave immediately for a safer location, such as with family or friends outside the danger zone.
  • Do not wait and see; delaying evacuation could put your life at extreme risk.
  • Take your emergency kit with you when evacuating.
  • If you become trapped in your car, park away from bushes, cover yourself with a woollen blanket, and get onto the floor, as windows may shatter from intense heat.
  • Close all doors and windows, and turn off evaporative air conditioners, but keep water running through the system if possible.

Sheltering Instructions for Those Unable to Leave

For residents who cannot evacuate, it is essential to prepare to shelter in place. You must take shelter before the fire arrives, as extreme heat can be fatal even before flames reach you. Choose a room with running water, such as a kitchen or laundry, and ensure it has a clear exit for easy escape. If you are not at home, do not attempt to return, as it is too dangerous.

The situation remains fluid, with authorities monitoring the bushfire closely. Residents are encouraged to stay updated through official channels for the latest information and advisories.