NATIONAL parks and reserves across the region are the latest casualties of the ongoing drought, with a fire ban announced for all parks across the northern plains area for the entire summer.
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The ban comes into force today and will be in place until March 31 unless extended or removed.
It includes the Warrumbungle National Park, Mount Kaputar National Park, reserves of the Pilliga, Goonoo National Park and State Conservation Area, Terry Hie Hie Aboriginal Area, Deriah Aboriginal Area and Boonalla Aboriginal Area.
During park fire ban period, all campfire and solid fuel (wood, heat beads, charcoal, briquettes, hexamite) barbecues and stoves are prohibited.
Gas and electric barbecues and cookers are permitted as long as they’re under direct control of an adult; the ground within 2m of the barbecue is cleared of all flammable materials; and there’s an adequate supply of water available.
National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) northern plains region manager Robert Smith said the bans were for the safety of visitors and were one of the ways to protect the reserves from the threat of fire.
“The main danger with solid fuel fires is, if not properly extinguished, they can continue to burn for days after campers have left and lead to a wildfire,” he said.
Mr Smith emphasised the park fire bans were for the whole summer and not just on days declared as a total fire ban.
For further information on the parks affected by the bans, go to www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au