Ambulance Victoria downgrades statewide Red Escalation as conditions ease

Ambulance Victoria has downgraded the statewide Red Escalation to an Orange level for the active bushfires from 7pm on Saturday 10 January 2026, following improved conditions across much of the state and in consultation with our emergency service partners.

The downgrade reflects a reduction in forecast fire danger, while recognising that active bushfires and ongoing heat conditions continue to present risks in some areas. The Orange Escalation will remain in place to support readiness and response for the bushfires incidents, including paramedic and patient safety.

Some Ambulance Victoria crews were temporarily relocated from branches in high-risk areas in line with advice from emergency management authorities for communities to leave ahead of catastrophic fire danger conditions. As conditions began to ease today, Ambulance Victoria commenced the staged return of crews to their branches where it is safe to do so, following local risk assessments and in consultation with emergency service partners.

Victorians are urged to remain vigilant, continue to monitor conditions, and follow advice on the VicEmergency app and website. Communities in affected areas should be prepared to act quickly if conditions deteriorate.

To help keep ambulances available for life threatening emergencies, the community is encouraged to consider alternative care options for non urgent health concerns, including the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department, NURSE ON CALL, local Urgent Care Clinics, GPs and pharmacists.

Ambulance Victoria thanks the community for their cooperation during the Red Escalation period and acknowledges the ongoing efforts of emergency services and partner agencies responding to bushfires across Victoria.

A list of paramedic branches that remain relocated will be updated regularly to ensure the community has access to the most current information.