Total Fire Ban - Southern Riverina 4 January 2013

The Total Fire Ban will commence at midnight tonight and remain in place until midnight Friday 4 January 2013.

The Total Fire Ban in the Southern Riverina covers the following Councils:

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• Berrigan
•    
• Conargo
•    
• Corowa
•    
• Deniliquin
•    
• Jerilderie
•    
• Murray
•    
• Urana
•    
• Wakool

The Bureau of Meteorology has advised that Southern Riverina will have a ‘Very High’ Fire Danger Rating. If you are in an area of ‘Very High’ fire danger the NSW Rural Fire Service advises that:

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• Under these conditions fires can be difficult to control and present a threat to properties.
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• Embers may be blown around homes causing other fires to occur up to 2km ahead of the main fire.
•    
• Well prepared homes that are actively defended can offer safety during a fire. People should report any unattended fires to Triple Zero.

On a day of Total Fire Ban, there is a ban on any fires out in the open. A gas or electric barbeque is allowed, but only if:

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• It is on a residential property within 20 metres of the house or dwelling
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• It is in a picnic area and approved by Council, National Parks or State Forest
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• It is under the direct control of a responsible adult
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• The ground around the barbecue is cleared for 2 metres of all material that can burn
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• You have an immediate and continuous supply of water available.

For full details on Total Fire Ban rules: http://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/dsp_content.cfm?cat_id=1110