Bush Fire Danger Period Starts A Month Early

NSW RFS Southern Border Team declares


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NSW RFS Southern Border Team declares early start of Bush Fire Danger Period

The Southern Border Team will start the Bush Fire Danger Period (BFDP) a month early this year due to ongoing warm and dry conditions. The early start to the BFDP effects the local government areas of Albury, Greater Hume, Federation and Berrigan. The NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) is urging residents to prepare now for what could be a long and protracted fire season.

While November 1st is traditionally when the bush fire season officially commences, the Southern Border Team will begin the fire season on Monday October 1st 2018.

NSW RFS Superintendent Pat Westwood is urging residents to make and discuss their bush fire survival plan.

“This is 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,” Superintendent Pat Westwood said.

“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.

Superintendent Pat Westwood said with warm and windy conditions becoming more conducive to the spread of fire, people need to be extremely careful when using fire and need to be aware that if they are planning on burning timber, that it must be extinguished by October 1st and then monitored as to prevent any flare ups. 

“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,” Superintendent Pat Westwood said.

Resident must be aware that if they light a fire, they are responsible for that fire.

“During the Bush Fire Danger Period any person wishing to light a fire will require a permit, free to obtain from the NSW RFS.

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.

28 September 2018




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