Southern and Barkly residents to battle buffel and maintain fire breaks

Northern Territory Fire and Rescue Services is urging all residents and rural land owners across the Barkly and Southern districts to tidy up their properties and maintain fire breaks before July 1.

The Southern and Barkly areas enjoyed wide spread rains across the regions earlier this year, which resulted in higher than average fuel loads.

“There’s been little to no fuel loads across these two regions in previous years,” said Acting District Officer for the Southern Command, Brendon Magnoli.

“This year is different, this year there is a considerable amount of grass which will burn quickly. If you haven’t already maintained your fire breaks or cut down the buffel grass on your property – now is the time to do it.”

Properties in the rural area require a four meter fire break around the perimeter to allow access for fire vehicles.

“In preparation for Territory Day, we’re urging residents to give themselves piece of mind and ensure they’ve done the small things that can prevent big fires – clear your gutters, clear around your home, cut down the grass and make sure your fire alarms are working.”

PFES Media
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