Weather bodes well for hazard reduction

NSWRFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said that every opportunity to undertake hazard reduction is taken, and volunteers across NSW will be working hard this weekend reducing bush fire hazards.

"With the long term wet weather putting us behind schedule, all agencies will take full advantage of any opportunity to undertake this necessary and important work.

"In coming days, agencies including the NSWRFS, Fire Rescue NSW, National Parks, Forests NSW and local government authorities have burns planned.

"This is an important part of protecting communities and reducing the potential impact of bush fires should they occur. Agencies will continue these activities while conditions remain suitable," Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.

Hazard reductions are planned for Sydney's Northern Beaches, the Blue Mountains, Wollongong and on the Central Coast.

During the hazard reductions, these areas may be affected by smoke. Residents close to the controlled burns are encouraged to take precautions such as keeping doors and windows closed, removing washing from clotheslines and if driving through smoke, slow down and turn headlights on.

Commissioner Fitzsimmons said that preparing for the threat of bush fires is a joint responsibility.

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

"People should be making sure that their homes and properties are free from hazards by maintaining lawns and clearing away debris and overgrown vegetation," Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.

A full list of scheduled hazard reductions is available at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au.