More than 50 hazard reduction burns planned

Summary

Fire agencies and land managers are taking advantage of favourable weather conditions to step up essential hazard reduction burning across NSW.

 

NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said there are more than 50 controlled burns scheduled across the state in the next week.

"We've experienced very wet conditions in recent months across many parts of the state and with the weather improving, this is important work to prepare for the inevitable return of fire conditions," Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.

"There are hazard reduction burns already underway today in areas including Sutherland, Hornsby, Gosford and in the South East of NSW and this activity will increase in many areas over the coming days.

"If current weather conditions continue, NSW RFS volunteers along with other agencies and land managers aim to undertake more than 50 controlled burns, with around 20 in Sydney alone."

While hazard reduction burns are underway, some areas may be affected by smoke and people are advised to only contact Triple Zero (000) if they see an unattended fire.

Residents near controlled burns are encouraged to take precautions such as keeping doors and windows closed, removing washing from clotheslines and if driving through smoke affected areas, slow down and switch on headlights.

"Just as fire agencies and land managers are using these benign weather conditions to prepare for the bush fire season, so should the community.

"After the recent wet weather, complacency is a concern. Fire conditions will return and it's never too early to prepare yourself, your home and your family," said Commissioner Fitzsimmons.

A full list of scheduled hazard reduction burns is available at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/hr

 

Contact Name: State Duty Media Officer

Contact Phone: 02 9898 1855