Total Fire Ban - Southern Riverina 5 January 2013

The Total Fire Ban will commence at midnight tonight and remain in place until midnight Saturday 5 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:

•    
• Under these conditions fires can be difficult to control and present a threat to properties.
•    
• 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:

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

For full details on Total Fire Ban rules & map of current Total Fire Bans: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au. 

Media Contact: NSW RFS State Duty Media Officer (02) 9898 1855