Bush fire danger period brought forward

The bush fire danger period will be brought forward in the Namoi Gwydir area in response to dry conditions and extremely high fuel loads from previous wet seasons.

The statutory fire danger season will start a month early, from September 1.

Residents and landholders in Narrabri Shire will need to notify fire agencies before lighting hazard reductions and pile burns once the period comes into effect.

NSW RFS Superintendent Michael Brooks said while landholders are encouraged to reduce fuel loads on their property, it is imperative that it is done so safely and legally especially with the predicted serious conditions this season.

“Every landholder also has a responsibility to prevent fire spreading from their property and there can be serious consequences for people who light fires and leave them unattended,” Supt Brooks said.

Landholders in rural areas should contact either their local fire brigade or fire control centre about obtaining fire permits.

Once an approved fire permit is obtained, people need to continue the standard practice of notifying their immediate neighbours and the Rural Fire Service.

An online portal also provides NSW residents with the ability to quickly and easily notify fire services when they’re planning to use fire on their property.

Speaking with The Courier about the early danger season, Supt Brooks said the rural community is concerned this year due to extremely high fuel loads.

“There is concern we could go back to those eras where we have grass fires again, with strong winds pushing across the landscape,” he said.

“With the forecast conditions, it is a concern we could experience large fires in Pilliga Forest.”

The RFS has been busily preparing ahead of the coming warmer months by checking equipment and fire trails as well as training and meeting with members.

New members have been encouraged to join the RFS.

As part of the fire danger season preparations, local RFS officials have also been liaising with fellow firefighting agencies including National Parks and Forestry.

The message from the RFS to people is clear – be prepared and consider your emergency planning.

“People should ask themselves what they will do if a large fire approaches their assets,” Supt Brooks said.

“By prioritising, they can look at protecting life, property and the environment.

“Always have more than one evacuation plan or routes for an evacuation.”

Supt Brooks has asked people to look at their properties and clear fuel from assets, accesses and boundaries.

For more information about fire safety, people can seek advice from a fire control centre, local RFS brigade or from the RFS website.