With temperatures expected to soar across the region over the weekend, local fire crews are urging locals to be on high alert.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Very high fire danger ratings remain in place for most regions throughout the state including the New England, Northern Slopes and North West, and the Rural Fire Service (RFS) is reminding locals to be prepared.
Liverpool Range RFS operations officer Mark Denton said it was possible a total fire ban could be enforced over the weekend.
“We have already seen a total fire ban declared in the Upper Hunter,” Mr Denton said.
“It is always possible that the already predicted very high fire danger could be upgraded by the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) to a total fire ban over the weekend.”
Friday’s warning comes after RFS crews were called to a grass fire in Curlewis earlier in the week.
“The fire in Curlewis was at the tip and was started after some dumped items combusted in the landfill pit,” Mr Denton said.
“While our crews were quickly on the scene and extinguished this fire without any issues, I think it is a timely reminder that fires can start in a variety of ways and people need to be vigilant.
“Any fire can continue to burn for a long time after it’s started if it’s not extinguished properly, so as we head into a very high fire danger period it’s important people take proper precautions.”
Read Also:
Currently, the very high fire danger rating means the RFS will not issue any permits to residents to burn off on their properties.
“It’s very important for everyone to stay alert during the up coming summer months,” Mr Denton said.
“Have your bushfire survival plan in place and be prepared to act on it, if the need arises.
“Downloading the Fires Near Me app on your phone is also a great idea because that gives regular updates on what fires are doing.
“The other key thing we want locals to do is report any fires, if you see smoke or an unattended fire call 000 or the RFS’s bushfire hotline on 1800 679 737 as soon as possible.”