If you are camping this weekend, there may be a fire ban in the area.
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The NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) is urging residents to get ready for another period of high temperatures and increased fire danger, with temperatures across the state continue to soar.
The Bureau of Meteorology advises much of New South Wales, including the Hunter region, will experience an extended period of hot and dry weather over the coming days.
NSW RFS declared a total fire ban on Friday, January 19 for some of the most affected regions, including the Greater Hunter council region.
As this region cover parts of the Barrington Tops National Park, areas of the park will have the same restrictions.
Total fire bans are issued by NSW RFS in 24 hour blocks, which can be extended as necessary.
The bans cover open fire in camping areas, so people camping the in the Barrington Tops need to take note of any signs indicating a fire ban.
Tamworth is included in the current ban and the NSW RFS want anyone travelling to the area for the Tamworth Country Music Festival to be aware of the restrictions when camping.
Total Fire Ban rules:
- No fires during a total fire ban. A total fire ban means no fires out in the open. A total fire ban helps limit the potential of fires developing.
- During a total fire ban you cannot light, maintain or use a fire in the open, or to carry out any activity in the open that causes, or is likely to cause, a fire.
- No general purpose hot works, such as welding or gas cutting can be done in the open.
- The NSW RFS strongly recommends you reconsider activities such as such using a tractor or slashing, to help reduce the chance of a fire starting on your property. Under certain conditions, the NSW RFS may issue a Cease Harvest request.
Up to date information about total fire bans and the rules can be found at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/
The NSW RFS recommends people living in bush fire prone areas to get ready now:
- Make or review your bush fire survival plan - decide now what you will do if a fire starts near you
- Check the fire danger for your area - look out for the roadside signs and know the fire danger rating
Stay up to date on fires in your area - check the NSW RFS website or the Fires Near Me app for fires in your area.
Commissioner Fitzsimmons said while NSW RFS, Fire and Rescue NSW, National Parks and Wildlife Service and Forestry Corporation of NSW firefighters are ready to respond, the community needs to play its part to help prevent and minimise the impact of bush and grass fires.
“We have seen in the past few days fires, like the one at Port Stephens, spread quickly and threaten communities with little warning,” Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.
“Preparation is the key and we need families and households to make and discuss their bush fire survival plan so everyone knows what they need to do in the event that a fire threatens.”
Anyone who sees an unattended fire should call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
Visit www.myfireplan.com.au for simple tips on getting ready for this bush fire season.