Hazard reduction burns underway before more hot weather

Hazard reductions are planned for Sydney Basin this weekend around Sutherland, Ku-Ring- Gai, Hawkesbury and Hornsby, with these areas expected to be affected by smoke.

Outside of Sydney, burns are planned in areas around Bourke, Gwydir and the Shoalhaven.

Residents close to these controlled burns are encouraged to take the necessary precautions such as keeping doors and windows closed, removing washing from lines, and if driving through smoke, slowing down and switching on headlights.

With hot weather forecast across much of the state next week, NSW RFS is also urging people to check their bush fire survival plans.

NSW RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said with high temperatures forecast next week there is the potential for total fire bans and it's important for people to exercise common sense.

"People should use this opportunity to check their bush fire survival plan and ensure their home and property is well prepared.

Commissioner Fitzsimmons said fire services such as the NSW RFS will keep a close watch on conditions in coming days.

"Each afternoon, we'll be reviewing conditions such as temperature, humidity, winds and the dryness of the landscape for the following day and if necessary, declare total fire bans.

"Even if there aren't total fire bans, people still need to exercise caution and common sense. "

With the recent warmer weather we're already starting to see fuel dry out quite quickly, with our brigades attending number of small grass fires over recent days.

Total fire bans and current fire danger ratings can be found on the NSW RFS website at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au or by calling 1800 679 737.