Being responsible and prepared are just two of the many things acting Shoalhaven Rural Fire Service District Manager, Michael Gray, wants people to keep in mind before starting lighting fires on their properties.
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The bushfire danger period for the Shoalhaven has ended, but this does not mean residents can just go around and start lighting fires on their properties without following regulations.
Mr Gray said people still need to follow the basic guidelines, including giving your neighbours 24-hours notice of your intent to burn.
He added one of the most important things people did to let the RFS know of your intent to burn.
People can still call fire control on 4424 4424 but the RFS has an online section where you can go to put in an intent to burn.
The RFS also needs 24-hours notice when it comes to pile burns and the like.
Mr Gray said preparation and being aware of the weather conditions were other important guidelines.
"You do not light a fire when it's blowing a gale for example," Mr Gray said.
"If people are not sure about what to do they can ask us or someone from their local station."
He knows in general that people want to do the right thing.
A responsible adult, access to water, burning small piles and making sure you are not burning below a hazard are some of the simple but important steps.
Mr Gray said the RFS encourages people to clean up around their properties but added "people must think before they burn".
He added fires, even when it's not in the bushfire danger period, can still get out of hand.
The RFS has loads of information available to residents - click here for a safe burning guideline.
Meanwhile, people living in urban areas, like Ulladulla or Nowra, need to contact Fire and Rescue NSW as fire permits are required all year round in built-up areas.
