Total Fire Bans are in place today (October 12, for the the Greater Hunter and Upper Hunter as well as Greater Sydney, Lower Central West Plains, North Western, Northern Slopes and Upper Central West Plains areas.
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With hot, dry and windy conditions, extreme and high fire danger ratings are forecast across the majority of the state.
The NSW Rural Fire Service advises people to know their fire risk and what you will do if fire threatens.
"Be ready to act. Report all unattended fires to Triple Zero (000)," a spokesperson said.
During a Total Fire Ban you cannot light, maintain or use a fire in the open, or to carry out any activity in the open that causes, or is likely to cause, a fire.
General purpose hot works (such as welding, grinding or gas cutting or any activity that produces a spark or flame) are not to be done in the open.
The NSW RFS strongly recommends you reconsider activities such as such using a tractor or slashing, to help reduce the chance of a fire starting on your property. Under certain conditions, the NSW RFS may issue a Harvest Safety Alert.
The fire service recommends five simple steps to ensure your property is prepared.
- Trim overhanging trees and shrubs.
- Mow your grass and remove your cuttings. Have a cleared area around your home.
- Remove material and objects that can burn around your house such as doormats, wood piles, outdoor furniture and mulch.
- Clear and remove all the leaves and debris from around your house and your gutters.
- Prepare - Have some sturdy hose or hoses that will reach all the way around your house.
For more information on Total Fire Ban rules, visit the #RFS website: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fdr
Michael Hartshorn
Since starting in 1985 at the then Melbourne Herald, journalism has taken me around Australia from Victoria, to the Northern Territory, Cairns in Queensland and now Port Stephens. After all those years there is still something special about informing and connecting with readers.
Since starting in 1985 at the then Melbourne Herald, journalism has taken me around Australia from Victoria, to the Northern Territory, Cairns in Queensland and now Port Stephens. After all those years there is still something special about informing and connecting with readers.
