NSW RFS declares August 1 start of bushfire danger period in Armidale, Glen Innes/Severn, Inverell, Tenterfield, Uralla, Walcha areas

Superintendent Steve Mepham said the danger period would kick in on August 1, meaning people would need to obtain a fire permit before burning in the open.

“This includes broad-acre and pile burns,” he said.

“Fire permits help land owners to address safety aspects before and during a burn.”

Superintendent Mepham said people could contact their local fire control centre for help in carrying out safe hazard reductions.

“While it is important to continue hazard reduction, we have all seen the devastation that bushfires can inflict on a community, so I strongly urge people to exercise extreme caution when carrying out these activities,” he said.

“Never leave a fire unattended and, if a fire does escape, it is essential to call triple-0 immediately so that emergency services can respond accordingly and minimise the damage.”

All fire permits are automatically suspended on total fire ban days and when the bushfire danger rating is ‘very high’ or above.

Superintendent Mepham said it was time for property owners to remove flammable materials from their yards, clear gutters of leaves, check hoses and, if needed, conduct hazard-reduction activities.

“These preparation tips, as well as helpful information about what to do in the event of a fire, are contained in the Bush Fire Survival Plan guide, which can be downloaded from the NSW RFS website,” he said.

“As well as completing or updating our plan, it is also important to have a conversation with your family so everyone knows what to do if a fire threatens.”