The Bush Fire Danger Period will commence on Wednesday 1 September 2021 for the Bega Valley Shire and Eurobodalla Shire Local Government areas. The NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) is urging Far South Coast residents to prepare now for the coming fire season.
“While an early fire season is not unusual for us on the Far South Coast, increased grass growth due to recent rain could prove problematic over coming weeks and months,” said NSW RFS Superintendent John Cullen.
“During the Bush Fire Danger Period, landowners and managers are required to obtain a Fire Permit for their local Rural Fire Brigade before lighting any fires, including hazard reduction burns.
“I strongly urge people to exercise extreme caution when carrying out these activities as we have all witnessed the devastation that bush fires can inflict on our communities.
“Never leave a fire unattended and if a fire does escape, it is critical that you call Triple Zero (000) immediately so that emergency services can attend and work to minimise damage.
Fire Permit holders are required to notify the Rural Fire Service and their adjoining neighbours 24 hours before lighting up. You can notify of your intention to burn by visiting www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/notify or by calling your local Fire Control Centre on 02 6494 7400 or 02 4474 2855.
“Bush and grass fire can strike at any time and it is vitally important for residents and land managers to be prepared,” Superintendent Cullen said.
“Residents should prepare their property by removing flammable materials from around their home and assets, keeping lawns mown, clearing gutters of leaves and checking hoses and pumps are operable.
“It is also important to update and discuss your Bush Fire Survival Plan, so you and your family know what you will do in the event of a bush fire.
Helpful information about preparing properties and what to do in the event of a fire are available in the Bush Fire Surivival Plan and Farm Fire Plan guides available on the NSW RFS website (www.rfs.nsw.gov.au).
Information about hazard reduction burning, required notifications and obtaining fire permits is available at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/BFDP.
