BALRANALD residents are being urged to prepare for the upcoming fire season.
Saturday, October 1, marked the official start of the state-wide statutory Bush Fire Danger Period.
NSW RFS Lower Western District manager superintendent Steve Walker is reminding Balranald Shire residents that fire permits are required during the entire statutory Bush Fire Danger Period. These permits are free and can be obtained from the Lower Western Fire Control Centre.
“When conditions are particularly bad, such as on days of High, Extreme or Catastrophic Fire Danger, the NSW RFS may declare a Total Fire Ban, prohibiting the lighting of any fire or having an existing fire within the open, even if you have a current fire permit,” Supt Walker said.
“This means that any fire must be fully extinguished before midnight, and no new fires can be lit.”
On a day of a Total Fire Ban lighting fires is prohibited, including cooking fires using incinerators and barbecues which burn solid fuel such as wood or charcoal. Gas or electric barbecues are permitted under certain conditions.
“We urge all residents across the Wentworth and Balranald Shires to be vigilant and extremely careful with fire during the bush fire danger period,” Supt Walker said.
“I encourage every resident to have a well-rehearsed Bush Fire Survival Plan, so they know what to do on days of increased fire danger and can immediately put their plan into action if their home is threatened.
“I would also encourage residents to acquaint themselves with the new Australia Fire Danger Ratings and download the NSW RFS Fires Near Me app on their smart devices – this app is a great way to stay up to date with current incidents that may be nearby.”
Severe penalties exist including fines or imprisonment for breaches of Fire Prevention measures contained within the Rural Fires Act 1997.
Fire Permits can be obtained by contacting the Lower Western Fire Control Centre on (03) 5027 4422. Information about Total Fire Ban declarations can be found on the NSW RFS website.
