OCTOBER 1 is the official start of the statutory bush fire danger period (BFDP) in the Wingecarribee local government area.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) community safety officer inspector David Stimson is urging residents to complete a bush fire survival plan.
Mr Stimson said it was important to ensure all members of the household knew what to do on days of increased fire danger and if their home was threatened by fire.
Residents should prepare their property by removing flammable materials from their yards, clearing gutters of leaves, checking hoses and, where appropriate, conducting hazard reduction activities.
"I strongly urge people to exercise caution when carrying out these activities," Mr Stimson said.
"Residents can ask their local fire control centre for advice in carrying out safe hazard reductions and about whether they need a bush fire hazard reduction certificate."
Mr Stimson said he recommend visiting the NSW RFS website, www.myfireplan.com.au, where useful information could be accessed.
"When conditions become more conducive to the spread of fire, people need to be extremely careful when using fire," he said.
"Never leave a fire unattended and if a fire does escape, it is essential to call Triple Zero (000) immediately so that emergency services can respond accordingly and minimise the damage."
During the BFDP, any person wishing to light a fire will require a permit issued by their local rural fire service brigade captain.
On days of a total fire ban, all bush fire hazard reduction certificates are automatically revoked.
To check the fire danger ratings for your area, visit www.rfs.nsw.gov.au or contact the Mittagong Fire Control Centre on 4868 5500.