OCTOBER 1 marks the start of the Statutory Bush Fire Danger Period in the Wingecarribee area.

NSW RFS Southern Highlands team community safety officer Inspector David Stimson encouraged residents to complete their Bush Fire Survival Plans now.

"The one question that I would ask all residents is 'Do You Know your Level of Risk?'. If you don't know your level of risk then you are more likely not to be concerned about your safety,” he said.

"Do not be fooled by the current pattern of wet and cooler weather. These conditions have encouraged significant fuel growth particularly in grassland areas and when the weather warms up these grasses will cure off and be primed for large fast running destructive fires."

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,” Inspector 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”.

“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.”

Those wishing to burn piles are encouraged to obtain all required approvals beforehand.

Inspector Stimson said residents could face significant fines.

Burning without these is an illegal activity and further if inappropriate preparations have been made there is high incidence of escaped burns which can cause significant damage and also threaten life and property,” he said.

"An escaped burn running into an adjoining property and beyond can result in the property owner of the fireorigin faced with considerable compensation to neighbours.

“Every landholder has a responsibility to prevent fire from spreading from their property and there can be serious consequences for people who light fires and leave them unattended. History has shown that problems occur when people do not adequately supervise fires and an escaped pile burns can be very difficult for firefighters to contain.

The NSW RFS encourages landholders to proactively reduce fuel loads, where practicable, on their property while ensuring burns are conducted safely and legally.

On days of 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. 

To check your bush fire risk, check http://www.myfireplan.com.au/.