Local News

Fire Danger Warning System.

Clarence Valley included in bush fire danger period

As the bush fire season commences, the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) is encouraging communities to be prepared and to take appropriate action to protect themselves, their loved ones, and their homes from the serious threat of bush fires.

NSW Commissioner Rob Rogers recently announced an additional 21 areas across the state, including the Clarence Valley, have entered the bush fire season this month due to local conditions.

Commissioner Rogers said the Local Government Areas (LGAs) commenced the bush fire danger period from September 1, bringing the current number of LGAs in bush fire season to 27.

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

“Land holders and firefighters have reported increased grass growth from recent rain, particularly west of the ranges, and the threat of grass fires increases as it dries out.”

“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.

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

Commissioner Rogers said if a fire does escape control, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

Commissioner Rogers also said while firefighters are busy preparing, residents are encouraged to do the same.

“Now is the time to update and discuss your bush fire survival plan,” he said.

“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 any animals.”

Commissioner Rogers is also encouraging residents to visit www.myfireplan.com.au for further information regarding the preparation of bush fire survival plans.

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

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

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