TODAY, October 1 marks the start of the statutory Bush Fire Danger Period meaning as of today a permit will be needed by anyone wishing to light a fire in the open.
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This applies to all areas in the South West Zone including Cootamundra, Boorowa, Harden and Young.
NSW RFS zone manager for the South West Inspector Andrew Dillon said hotter and drier conditions mean fires are more likely to start and spread quickly during the Bush Fire Danger Period.
“From now until the end of the Bush Fire Danger Period, people wishing to light a fire in the open will require a permit, which are free and can be obtained from your local fire brigades or Fire Control Centre,” Inspector Dillon said.
Inspector Dillon also warned that a range of penalties currently exist, and will be applied to people who use fire irresponsibly.
“When conditions are particularly bad, such as on days of Severe, Extreme or Catastrophic Fire Danger, the NSW RFS may declare a Total Fire Ban, prohibiting the lighting of any fire in the open, even if you have a fire permit.”
On a day of Total Fire Ban the lighting of fires is prohibited. This includes cooking fires using incinerators and barbecues which burn solid fuel, such as wood or charcoal.
“We urge all residents in the South West Slopes Zone area to be vigilant and extremely careful with fire during the Bush Fire Danger Period,” Inspector Dillon said.
“Every resident should have a Bush Fire Survival Plan so they know what to do on days of increased fire danger and can immediately put their plan into action if their home is threatened by fire.”
Information about Total Fire Ban declarations is published at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au.
Local residents can also call the Harden Fire Control Centre on 6386 3170 or the Bushfire Information Line on 1800 NSW RFS (1800 679 737).
