The Rural Fire Service yesterday announced Kempsey and Nambucca Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the Lower North Coast area will commence the Bush Fire Danger Period on Friday 1 September.
Rural Fire Service Superintendent Liz Ferris said that as of today, 1 September, there will be a total of 38 LGAs across NSW which have commenced their Bush Fire Danger Period.
“While the statutory bush fire danger period commences on 1 October, it is not uncommon for some areas of the State to begin the Bush Fire Danger Period on September 1. Lower North Coast has a permanent variation which sees the Bush Fire Danger Period commence on 1 September every year, due to local conditions.” Superintendent Ferris said.
“During the Bush Fire Danger Period, landowners and land managers are required to obtain a Fire Permit from their local RFS before lighting any fires, including hazard reduction burns.
“Before landowners light a fire, it’s critical that they check weather conditions for safe burning and that they have the necessary precautions and equipment in place.”
“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 and minimise the damage.”
With the Fire Danger Period commencing, Fire Permit holders are still required to let fire authorities and their neighbours know at least 24 hours before lighting up. Landowners must notify their intention to burn by visiting www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/notify or calling their local Fire Control Centre.
