The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is conducting a hazard reduction burn in Murramarang National Park near South Durras Wednesday, 18 August.
NPWS Area Manager Michael Phelan said the 100-hectare burn will take place south west of the community of South Durras.
“These areas were not directly impacted by fire in previous summers’ bushfires and it is important that this burn go ahead to help protect residents from future fire events,” said Mr Phelan.
“The controlled burn will also help to maintain biodiversity in the national park and reduce fuel loads in the area.
“This work also provides firefighters with safe zones and access where they can defend properties should a bushfire occur,” Mr Phelan said.
Road signs will be in place in the vicinity during the operation.
Smoke may affect the area and people with asthma or other respiratory problems are advised to keep clear of the area or stay indoors and follow their health plan.
This burn is one of many hazard reduction operations undertaken by NPWS across New South Wales each year, many with assistance from the Rural Fire Service.
Hazard reductions are an essential activity under the current Public Health Orders and will be conducted in a COVID-19 safe manner to ensure the safety of fire crews and the community.
COVID-19 safety briefings are provided to all staff who are required to wear masks along with their normal fire personal protective equipment. Contact tracing is also enabled via the QR code sign-in all fire crews must complete when starting.
For health information relating to smoke from bush fires and hazard reduction burning, visit NSW Health or the Asthma Foundation.
