The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has introduced a ban on solid fuel fires within national parks and nature reserves across the south coast from today.
The park fire ban means that only gas, liquid fuel stoves and electric BBQs can be used.
NPWS South Coast Director Kane Weeks said that campfires and solid fuel cooking fires are too risky under the current conditions.
‘Right along the coastal and escarpment reserves, dry conditions combined with hot, dry weather mean that campfires are a risk in bushland areas throughout the region,’ said Mr Weeks.
‘Under the current conditions, bushfires can start very easily from the sparks of a campfire. All it takes is a gust of wind and we could have a bushfire.
‘Historically there are many examples where campfires have been the cause of major bushfires.
‘These park-specific bans have been put in place to help protect park visitors and nearby townships from the threat of bushfire during this elevated fire danger period.
‘The ban means wood and solid fuel fires are prohibited in all reserves managed by the NPWS.
‘If a total fire ban is declared by the Rural Fire Service (RFS) at some later stage then gas and liquid stoves will also be banned,’ said Mr Weeks.
Visitors planning a trip to any of our great national parks on the south coast are advised to check the NPWS Alerts webpage for up-to-date information on park fire bans or any other closures.
