THE NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) has delayed the start of the statutory Bush Fire Danger Period from Kempsey to the Queensland border, due to ongoing wet weather.
Traditionally the period begins on 1 September, however fire permits will not be required until 1 October.
RFS Superintendent Sandra Huer said recent weather conditions have resulted in reduced fire activity in the region.
“Landholders should take advantage of the milder conditions by conducting hazard reduction activities and ensuring their properties are well prepared for summer,” Supt Huer said.
“Every resident should also make and discuss their bush fire survival plan and ensure every member of their household knows what to do in the event a fire threatens.”
“If you wish to burn prior to the commencement of the Bush Fire Danger Period, you must still follow all the normal procedures, such as notifying neighbours and your local fire authority a minimum of 24 hours before lighting, and having an adequate water supply on site.
“It is your responsibility to prevent the spread of fire from your property, which means it is important that you do not leave fires unattended.
“If a fire does escape, it is essential that you call Triple Zero (000) immediately so that emergency services can respond quickly and minimise the damage.”
Landholders can use the online notification tool at rfs.nsw.gov.au/notify to ensure local fire authorities are aware of any burns they intend to undertake.
“If fire authorities are aware of your burn, it helps prevent unnecessary emergency calls and the deployment of firefighting resources.
“The online notification tool also provides notifications about any Total Fire Bans, helping landholders make informed decisions about whether to proceed with their planned burn.”
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