Bushfire danger period starts tomorrow

The NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) has declared that the start of the statutory Bush Fire Danger Period (BFDP) will commence on Thursday 1 October 2020 for the Mid-Western Regional Council Area.

(Pic:Troy Gersback speaking with Ken Sutcliffe on 2MG)

‘From 1 October people wishing to light a fire in the open will require a written permit. Permits are free and can be obtained from your local RFS brigade. Permits should be requested well ahead of time to allow a permit officer to inspect the proposed burn’ Superintendent Troy Porter said.

‘Many land owners have taken advantage of the conditions during winter to prepare their properties and undertake safe burning activities but once the Bush Fire Danger Period begins lighting a fire without a valid permit can and will lead to significant penalties.’

A permit is not required for the purpose of cooking when the following conditions are met:

• the fire is in a permanently constructed fireplace;

• at a site surrounded by ground that is cleared of all combustible materials for a distance of at least two metres all around;

• the fire is completely extinguished before leaving.

‘It is also important to remember that if a Total Fire Ban is declared all permits are suspended and no fires may be lit in the open. If you are not sure of the requirements you should contact the Fire Control Centre or refer to the NSW Rural Fire Service website.’

Residents are also being urged to ensure they have reviewed their Bush Fire Survival Plan ahead of the BFDP and ensure they have downloaded the Fires Near Me app on their smart phone.

'The recent rainfall the local area has experienced has increased grass growth and as temperatures rise the risk of grass fires is going to increase. It is important that residents take the necessary steps to ensure they do not start a fire that they cannot control’ says Superintendent Porter.

‘We ask all residents in the Mid-Western Regional Council area to be vigilant and extremely careful with fire during the Bush Fire Danger Period. Never leave a fire unattended and if you see an unattended fire you should call Triple Zero (000) immediately.’

For further information about obtaining a permit please contact the Cudgegong District Fire Control Centre on (02) 6372 4434 during business hours.