The NSW RFS has announced that the Wingecarribee and Wollondilly Local Government Areas (LGAs) will commence the statutory Bushfire Danger Period (BFDP) on October 1, 2021.
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NSW RFS Inspector David Stimson has urged residents in the Southern Highlands area to make and discuss their bush fire survival plan.
This discussion should include all members of the family so that all in the household have a clear understanding on what they should do on days of increased fire danger and if their home is threatened by fire.
"The current predictions are for a wetter than normal spring and this should not lead residents into complacency," Inspector Stimson said.
"These conditions will encourage fuel growth and warmer dryer weather expected early in the new year may present some challenges, particularly with grass fires.
"Residents should prepare their property by removing flammable materials from their yards, clearing leaves from gutters, checking hoses can reach all around the house and where appropriate, conducting hazard reduction activities."
Inspector Stimson said residents could ask their local Fire Control Centre for assistance in carrying out safe hazard reductions and for advice regarding whether they would need a Bushfire Hazard Reduction Certificate.
During the Bushfire Danger Period, land owners and dwellers are required to obtain a Fire Permit from their local Fire Brigade before lighting any fires, including hazard reduction burns.
Residents in the Wollondilly LGA will need written approval to conduct a pile burn by Wollondilly Shire Council in addition to the Fire Permit.
Residents are also obligated to inform your neighbours at least 24 hours before lighting and to also notify the NSW RFS online at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/notify
Inspector Stimson said a fire should never be left attended.
"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," he said.
On days of Total Fire Ban all Bushfire Hazard Reduction Certificates are automatically revoked.
Information about hazard reduction burning and required notifications is available on the NSW RFS website at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/BFDP.
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