Bush fire danger period

By DANE LILLINGSTONE

ON Saturday 1 August, the Bush Fire Danger Period (BFDP) will commence across the New England and Northern Tablelands and the New South Wales Rural Fire Service is urging residents to prepare now.
RFS Superintendent Chris Wallbridge is urging residents to complete a bushfire survival plan and ensure all members of the household know what to do in case of a fire emergency.
He suggests that residents prepare their property by removing flammable materials from yards, clear gutters of leaves, check hoses and where appropriate, conduct hazard reduction activities.
“While it is important to continue hazard reduction, we have all seen the devastation that bushfires can bring to a community, so I strongly urge people to exercise caution when carrying out these activities,” Superintendent Wallbridge said.
“Residents can ask their local Fire Control Centre for assistance in carrying out safe hazard reductions and for advice about whether they need a Bush Fire Hazard Reduction Certificate.
“Never leave a fire unattended and if a fire does escape, it is essential to call triple-zero (000) immediately so that emergency services can response accordingly and minimise the damage,” he said.
During the Bush Fire Danger Period any resident wishing to start a fire in the following areas will require a permit – Armidale Dumaresq, Guyra, Glen Innes Severn, Inverell, Tenterfield, Uralla and Walcha.
All fire permits will be automatically suspended on days of very high fire danger or above. To check the fire danger ratings visit www.rfs.nsw.gov.au or call your local Fire Control Centre.