Bush Fire Danger Period to begin in a further 21 areas

An additional 21 areas across NSW will enter the bush fire season tomorrow due to local conditions.

NSW Commissioner Rob Rogers said these Local Government Areas (LGAs) will commence the Bush Fire Danger Period from Wednesday 1 September 2021, bringing the number of LGAs in bush fire season to 27.

“Overcoming weeks and months, grass fires will be of particular concern, especially in these areas that have entered the bush fire danger period,” Commissioner Rogers said.

“Landholders and firefighters have reported increased grass growth from recent rain, particularly west of the ranges. The threat of grass fires will increase as this dries out.”

The remaining areas of NSW are expected to commence their Bush Fire Danger Period on 1 October.

“Anyone wishing to light a fire during the Bush Fire Danger Period must obtain a free permit in addition to notifying their local fire authority and neighbours 24 hours before lighting up,” Commissioner Rogers said.

“While hazard reductions are an important part of preparations, landholders need to be extremely careful, as escaped burns can lead to heavy penalties.

“If a fire does escape, make sure you call Triple Zero (000) immediately so that emergency services can respond and minimise the damage.”

Commissioner Rogers said while firefighters were busy preparing, residents should do the same.

“Now is the time to update and discuss your bush fire survival plan. Have the conversation with your family about what you will do during a fire – talk about when you’ll leave, where you’ll go, what you’ll take and what you’ll do with animals.”

For details on making a bush fire survival plan visit www.myfireplan.com.au

For information about the Bush Fire Danger Period, go to www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/BFDP

To notify of your intent to burn, use the online burn notification tool at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/notify.

21 LGAs commencing their Bush Fire Danger Period 1 September 2021: