Time to be aware of fire

The NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) has recently declared the start of the statutory Bush Fire Danger Period (BFDP) for the Northern Tablelands and New England areas.
Any person in the Tenterfield local government area wishing to light a fire will require a permit.
The start of the Bush Fire Danger Period does not prohibit burning, it enables fire authorities to regulate use of fire and ensure that land owners carry out their burns in a safe manner.
Residents should continue with their hazard reduction activities, given the prolific growth to ensure adequate asset protection zones are in place for buildings and safe refuges for stock in the event
of fire.
“Anybody wishing to light a fire on their property during the Bush Fire Danger Period will require a permit from their local brigade, which is provided free of charge,” community safety officer Phil Paterson said.
Inspector Paterson encourages all residents to have a Bush Fire Survival Plan, so all members of their household know what to do on days of increased fire danger, and if their home is threatened by fire.
All residents must notify neighbouring land owners and their local fire authority at least 24 hours before burning, as well as taking appropriate action to ensure containment and control of fire so it doesn’t escape and cause damage.
Northern Tablelands NSW RFS Burn Notification Line is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year on 1300 141 119. For more details contact Northern Tablelands RFS on (02) 6732 7046 or visit www.rfs.nsw.gov.au