The NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) is urging land managers and property owners to carefully consider conditions before burning off this weekend and to make sure they notify fire agencies and neighbours.
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NSW RFS Supt Martin Surrey [Manager Southern Highlands Team] said escaped fires pose a very real threat to both people and property.
"Problems occur when people do not adequately supervise fires or underestimate the conditions," Supt. Surrey said.
"Already this month we have seen more than 40 escaped private burns so residents must consider both the current and forecast weather conditions before lighting up.
"Also, you must notify your neighbours and local fire authority at least 24 hours before starting your burn.
"Given forecast warm and windy conditions in areas of the state, it is also vital that landholders only burn off when it is safe to do so.
"Ensure you have adequate and functioning firefighting equipment on hand and follow the rules.
"For those areas within the Bush Fire Danger Period a Fire permit is required, which is free to obtain."
The Bush Fire Danger Period (BFDP) has commenced in the Armidale Regional, Walcha, Uralla, Glen Innes Severn, Inverell and Tenterfield Local Government Areas, meaning landholders must obtain a free Fire Permit before lighting up.
"Don't be the fire risk to your community, know your obligations if conducting burns and know the costs if you do the wrong thing, but most importantly, if a fire does get out of hand, make sure you report it immediately to Triple Zero (000)," Supt Surrey said.
"A person who lights a fire without the required approvals is guilty of an offence, with penalties including large fines and/or imprisonment.
"Every landholder has a responsibility to prevent fire spreading from their property and there can be serious consequences for people who light fires and leave them unattended."
Information about hazard reduction burning and required notifications is available on the NSW RFS website at 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.
Landholders can also notify the NSW RFS and obtain more information by contacting their local Fire Control Centre.
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