Cops doorknock 17 homes, warn of fire

Update at 2pm | 16th October 2009

SEVENTEEN households are being doorknocked by police as a fire threatens properties along Yeppoon Road.

Firefighters backburn near New Zealand Gully to try and contain a large bushfire.

Chris Ison

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Fire at Mt Archer

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Qld urged to prepare for bushfires

WITH the climate creating dryer conditions once more in south-east Queensland, the threat of bushfires this season is very real.

SEVENTEEN households are being doorknocked by police as a fire threatens properties along Yeppoon Road.

The large bushfire is in the Mt Archer Range and is travelling in a north-north-westerly direction.

Residents between access six and nine have been told to prepare to relocate to a safer area. The fire is expected to impact on the homes this afternoon and overnight.

Motorists are advised to avoid Yeppoon Road if possible this afternoon and are advised to use Emu Park Road as an alternative.

Currently, 26 fire crews are working to contain the blaze but firefighters may not be able to protect every affected property and residents should not expect a firefighter at their door.

UPDATE - 2PM: Residents at the top of Mt Archer are still isolated; police have blocked the road leading up the mountain amid smoke hazards.

Residents are advised to call Triple Zero (000) if their property comes under threat.