Historical information

Bushfire behaviour is influenced by many factors including temperature, relative humidity (RH), forest type, fuel quantity and fuel dryness, topography and even slope. But wind has a dominant effect on the Rate of Spread (ROS), as well as fire size, shape and direction.
Wind speed can be measured using a variety of anemometers.
This simple hand-held Venitimer was made by Elvometer in Sweeden, probably in the 1960s, and was designed for principally for mariners. Some models have a compass in the handle to measure wind direction.
The small inlet hole on the side is faced towards the wind and air pressure lifts small plastic disk inside. The upper tube is tapered so that as wind speed increases more air escapes and stronger winds are needed to raise the disk.
Wind speed in MPH is read from the side of the clear plastic tube. The waterproof container has instructions on use and conversion scales.

Significance

Simple and robust device.

Physical description

Hand- held wind anemometer

Inscriptions & markings

Instructions on use on container