As the end of winter approaches, the Rural Fire Service is reminding Narrabri Shire residents of the bushfire dangers that come with warmer weather.
Superintendent Michael Brooks, team manager for Namoi/Gwydir says now is the perfect time for local landowners to prepare.
“With all the wet weather we’ve had, there’s a lot of vegetation that’s benefitted and grown,” he said.
“This is particularly worrying in grassland areas and around waterways – left unchecked this will act as fuel, which can make a bushfire much more intense.”
Supt Brooks says locals should assess their property, cutting back any long grass and clearing away flammable rubbish before the weather gets too warm.
Another popular option is hazard reduction burning, in which landholders can burn off any potential fuel loads with a controlled fire.
Supt Brooks says many landowners undertake these restricted burns around this time of the year.
But he reminds those in the Narrabri Shire that escaped fires pose a very real threat to both people and property, which is why anyone planning on backburning should do so carefully.
“Every landholder 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.
“Problems occur when people do not adequately supervise fires or underestimate the conditions.
“Already this month, we have seen more than 40 escaped private burns across NSW, so residents must consider both the current and forecast weather conditions before lighting up.”
Supt Brooks also reminds locals that you must notify the relevant people before starting a controlled burn on your property.
“You have to tell your neighbours and local fire authority at least 24 hours before starting your burn,” he said.
“And, if you’re planning to burn any time after October 1, you’ll need to have a permit.
“A person who lights a fire without the required approvals is guilty of an offence, with penalties including large fines and/or imprisonment.”
Supt Brooks says these protocols are in place to ensure the safety of local people and their property.
“Don’t be the fire risk to your community, know your obligations if conducting burns and know the costs if you do the wrong thing, but most importantly, if a fire does get out of hand, make sure you report it immediately to triple zero,” he said.
The Narrabri RFS team will soon be conducting their own hazard reduction assessments, with controlled burns and evaluation of surrounding fire breaks, around the shire.
Supt Brooks suggests local people reassess their fire safety plan, as we approach bushfire season.
“You need to know what to do in an emergency – it pays to be prepared and there’s plenty of resources online for anyone looking to update or create a fire safety plan,” he said.
“And remember that we’re still experiencing cool weather, so you should continue to keep an eye out for fire hazards like indoor appliances such as gas/electric heaters, wood fires and anything electrical.”
The NSW RFS encourages continued education on fire safety, and welcomed any enquires from local people wanting to know more.
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