Braidwood RFS attending the Braidwood Community Tune Up Day on 6 September. Photo: Facebook
The NSW Rural Fire Service is calling on residents to join with volunteer firefighters and prepare for the bush fire season on Get Ready Weekend – this weekend, September 14 & 15.
Weather, climate and drought conditions across NSW have brought the need to prepare properties for fire into sharp focus. Although it’s only just Spring, fires have already been burning around NSW, including Cobargo last weekend.
“Over the past two months, we’ve seen more than 2700 bush and grass fires which have unfortunately destroyed homes, impacted property and closed roads,” Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons says.
The RFS has now declared 74 areas are now in their Bush Fire Danger Period, a month earlier than usual. Anyone wishing to light a fire must now obtain a permit from their local Fire Control Centre.
“Permits ensure that fire is used safely and to minimise the danger to landholders, their property and the community,” Commissioner Fitzsimmons says.
Around the alarm and growing concern about the fire season, this weekend residents can get involved in fun family events with a preparedness theme. Get Ready Weekend includes kid’s activities, firefighting displays, opportunities to get aboard a fire truck, and see some of the specialist equipment. Importantly you can also get information and advice on preparing your property for bush fire.
The Cobargo bushfire, burnt out 100 hectares and destroyed a temporary home/shed, September 7. Photo: Bega Valley Rural Fire Service Facebook
“With much of NSW in drought and a forecast of ongoing warm and dry conditions, there is the potential for a long and protracted bush fire season,” Superintendent Peter Alley, of Southern Tablelands Zone says.
“NSW RFS members have been busy preparing by undertaking hazard reduction burns, maintaining firefighting equipment and undergoing training.
“Get Ready Weekend is a chance for residents to do their bit to prepare and protect their family and property in the event of a fire.
“Volunteer firefighters will be available to talk to about the simple things you can do to reduce your bush fire risk,” Superintendent Alley says.
“Preparing for bush fires is easier than people may think. Take 5 minutes to improve or make a plan that will give your property, your family and yourself the best chance of survival should you be threatened by a bush fire.”
To find out what your local RFS brigade is up to this weekend and how you can get involved check the interactive map on the RFS website.
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