Prepare yourself and family for fire threat this long weekend

NSW RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said travellers should check weather conditions before they travel and know the fire danger for areas they are planning to visit and travelling through.

“With ongoing warm and dry weather, residents and travellers alike need to know what they will do if they are faced with a fire, especially if they are away from home,” Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.

“Fires can pose incredible danger for those not prepared or unaware of their surroundings, like those camping, on holidays or travelling in unfamiliar areas.”

Commissioner Fitzsimmons said everyone needs to take responsibility and know what they and their family will do if fire threatens.

“Along with having a bush fire survival plan and discussing it with your family, it is important to stay up to date with the latest information,” Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.

“Check the NSW RFS website or the Fires Near Me NSW app and listen to local radio for updates.

“I also encourage people to set watch zones in the Fires Near Me NSW app. In a few short steps you can receive push notifications for fires close to you, such as the area you are visiting or your home location.”

Commissioner Fitzsimmons also reminded anyone camping or planning to light a cooking fire to be extra careful at this time of year, as a small fire can quickly escalate into a major incident in hot and windy conditions.

“Campers should also check if a Total Fire Ban has been declared and on days of Severe, Extreme or Catastrophic fire danger, consider whether trips to fire-prone areas should be postponed,” Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.

“A further list of rules regarding Total Fire Bans, including the use of BBQ’s is available on the NSW RFS website.”

For more information and ‘how-to’ guides on setting up watch zones in Fires Near Me NSW, visit www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/apps

Current Fire Danger Ratings are posted at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au and are also available by calling the Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 NSW RFS (1800 679 737).