The Shoalhaven will start the Bush Fire Danger Period (BFDP) early this year due to local conditions.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
While October 1 is when the 2020/21 bush fire season officially commences, the Shoalhaven will begin the fire season on Tuesday the, September 1.
NSW RFS Superintendent Mark Williams said while recent rain had been welcome, it had also brought an unwelcome threat of grass fires due to an increase of vegetation that will eventually dry out.
"Grass fires can be especially dangerous because they start quickly and spread rapidly, destroying not only homes and stock, but also lives and livelihoods," Superintendent Williams said.
"Now is the time to update and discuss your bush fire survival plan to ensure all members of the household know what to do on days of increased fire danger and what to do if their home is threatened by fire.
"Residents should prepare their property by removing flammable materials from their yards, clearing leaves from gutters, checking hoses can reach all around the house and where appropriate, conducting hazard reduction activities.
"While it is important to continue hazard reduction we have all seen the devastation that bush fires can bring to a community, so I strongly urge people to exercise caution when carrying out these activities."
Read more:
During the Bush Fire Danger Period, land owners and managers must obtain a Fire Permit from their local Fire Control Centre before lighting any fires, including hazard reduction burns.
Residents can ask their local Fire Control Centre for assistance in carrying out safe hazard reductions and for advice about whether they need a Bush Fire Hazard Reduction Certificate.
Superintendent Williams said people need to be extremely careful when using fire.
"Never leave a fire unattended and if a fire does escape, it is essential to call Triple Zero (000) immediately so that emergency services can respond accordingly and minimise the damage," he said.
On days of Total Fire Ban all fire permits are automatically revoked. To check the Fire Danger Ratings for your area visit www.rfs.nsw.gov.au or contact your local Fire Control Centre.
