Bush Fire Danger Period wraps up

NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said it has been a particularly busy season, with firefighters from all agencies responding to more than 13,000 bush and grass fires since 1 July.

Coming out of one of the driest winters on record, firefighters prepared themselves for a long and challenging season. Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.

“By October we had already seen properties threatened in the lower and mid north coast, Singleton and Nowra areas.

“Conditions eased in November and early December before fire activity picked up once again around Christmas and early January, with firefighters protecting homes near Mulgoa and Williamtown,”

“Significant lightning activity across January saw firefighters deal with more than 500 new fires, many in remote areas including the Wollemi National Park, Putty State Forest and Tamworth areas.

“These fires saw a tremendous combined response from all agencies across the state.

Only two weeks ago crews responded to the most damaging and destructive fire of the season on the far south coast near Tathra.

“While more than 1,390 hectares burnt and 65 homes were tragically destroyed, firefighters managed to save over 800 homes in the town.

“We must be mindful that despite the significant damaged and destruction in the fire, no lives were lost.”

“This is a testament to the community and to the work of firefighters from all agencies across the state.

Commissioner Fitzsimmons is also reminding people that despite the Bush Fire Period coming to an end, it is important to remain aware of conditions,

“With many areas drier than they would normally be at this time of the year, and ongoing warm and windy days, it’s essential that everyone living or travelling in bush fire prone areas remain prepared.

“It’s important that you and your family know what you will do in the event a fire threatens.”

Due to localised weather conditions, three LGAs have extended the statutory Bush Fire Danger Period until 30 April 2018:

› Snowy Valleys
› Tamworth Regional
› Mid Western Regional

2017/18 BFDP facts:

› 13,030 bush/grass/scrub fires
› 256,526 hectares burnt
› 23 days of Total Fire Ban
› 74 homes and 58 structures destroyed
› 58 homes and 28 structures damaged