NSW and Victoria are at higher-than-normal risk of bushfire over the coming months.
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The 2016 bushfire season outlook has been released by the Bushfires and Natural Hazards CRC as firefighters and farmers begin preparations.
According to the report, NSW will experience a delayed start to the bushfire season due to above average winter rainfall.
It has been predicted the above average rainfall will continue for the next three months.
The weather conditions will then shift towards more typical conditions over summer.
The extra rain will have caused an increase in fuel availability for fires, which raises bushfire potential.
The 2016/17 bushfire danger period has officially begun, and fire permits are required to burning activities during this time.
People are urged not to throw lit cigarette butts from vehicles, which can start bush and grass fires.
NSW RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said a spark from a lit cigarette or machinery could set off a “serious” fire.
“It only takes one spark to set off a serious fire that can quickly spread,” he said.
‘Butt tossers’ can be reported by filling out a form on the RFS website: http://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/.
The full 2016 bushfire season outlook report can be viewed at http://www.bnhcrc.com.au/hazardnotes/019.
