FOLLOWING a season free of major outbreaks across the local area, the NSW Rural Fire Service advises an end to the statutory Bush Fire Danger Period within the Chifley-Lithgow Team area.
From April 1st fire permits will no longer be required for the Bathurst, Oberon and Lithgow Local Government Areas for standard pile burns and agricultural burns.
NSW RFS Superintendent Tom Shirt said all members of the public must still abide by the law when conducting hazard reduction burns.
“Penalties still apply for failing to notify neighbours that you are lighting a fire and for allowing fires to escape.
“Even though the weather is cooling down, there is still the potential for fires to threaten life, property and the environment.”
If residents do wish to conduct burning activities, they should ask the NSWRFS for advice, permits and approvals and:
• Give fire authorities and neighbours 24 hours notice.
• Check weather conditions total fire bans.
• Delay the burn if concerning winds are forecast.
• Create proper fire breaks.
• Have adequate water resources and fire fighting equipment on hand.
• Supervise the fire at all times.
• Call Triple Zero (000) immediately if fire escapes.
“We encourage people to seek advice from their local NSWRFS Fire Control Centre on how to safely conduct hazard reduction activities such as slashing, trittering and burning, and how to prepare their homes for the next bush fire season,” Fire Mitigation Officer Rebecca Phillips said.
Supt Shirt said the local community should not become complacent to the danger of bush fire.
“I urge all residents to continue to take the threat of bush fire seriously and to prepare their families and homes.
“Now is also a fantastic time to ensure your family has completed a Bush Fire Survival Plan.
“Your local Fire Control Centre can provide advice on how to safely undertake hazard reduction work and how to best prepare yourself, your property and your family for the next bush fire season.”
To notify your intention to burn or arrange a Bush Fire Hazard Reduction Certificate, contact your local Fire Control Centre in Bathurst on 6333 1333, Lithgow 6353 1862 or Oberon 6336 0493.
Although fire permits are no longer required, property owners must still ensure they abide by the Open Burning Policy issued by their council.
Regulations are still in place with regards to any burning, including pile burns, agricultural, stubble or use of fire to destroy waste.
To check whether you need a council approval, contact your local council on Bathurst 6333 6111 or Lithgow 6354 9999.
text from Lithgow Mercury 31st March, 2015
