Increased grass fire danger for New England District

17th Jan 2023

The NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) is warning residents of an increased risk of grass fires across the New England District over the coming months as the weather warms up.
NSW RFS Superintendent Paul Metcalfe said that two years of wet weather has led to prolific vegetation growth across NSW, with the State now facing its most significant grass fire threat in more than a decade.
“It can take just a few days of hot, dry and windy weather for grasslands to cure and for fires to take hold, even in areas which have experienced recent heavy rains and flooding.
“Grass fires can start easily and spread rapidly, threatening homes, crops and livelihoods.
“I urge New England District landholders to be aware of this increased threat and to prepare.
“Every landholder should have firefighting equipment on hand and ensure that it is in good working order.”
“All New England residents should also update and discuss their Bush Fire Survival Plan and know what they and their family will do if a fire threatens,” Superintendent Metcalfe said.
The top five actions landholders can take to make their property safer are:
› Clear and maintain firebreaks – they can help prevent a fire spreading to or from your property.
› Clear around assets and buildings – to help protect sheds and valuable equipment.
› Rotate stock – to help reduce the risk and ensure paddocks are well-grazed.
› Check for restrictions before using fire – permits are required during the Bush Fire Danger Period. Always check the conditions before using fire. On total fire ban days, all permits are suspended.
› Check and maintain equipment – a build up of debris can cause a fire, destroying equipment and crops.
› Have firefighting equipment handy –maintain hoses and water pumps, and check your water supply.
Residents should download the Fires Near Me NSW app and set a Watch Zone to monitor fires in their area.
For information about preparing for grass fires, check www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/grass or visit www.myfireplan.com.au.
To check the Fire Danger Ratings for your area, visit www.rfs.nsw.gov.au or check the Fires Near Me NSW smartphone app.

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Increased grass fire danger for New England District

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