THE NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) has suspended fire permits until further notice in the Singleton/Muswellbrook Local Government Area due to forecast hot, dry and windy conditions.
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NSW RFS Inspector Martin Siemsen said the decision to suspend fire permits had been made in order to help keep the local community safe from bush and grass fires.
“Just one spark from a planned hazard reduction can cause a fire to spread and threaten life and property,” he said.
“While fire permits have been suspended, we encourage residents to undertake other activities to protect their property from fire, such as clearing leaves from their gutters and removing flammable materials from around their homes.”
The NSW RFS provides the following advice about protecting properties from grass fires:
* Put fire breaks in place around assets and standing crops as well as boundary fences
* Check your farm equipment is in good order and is ready to deal with a fire
* Be aware that slasher and mower blades can spark if they strike rocks or metal, causing dry grass to ignite
Serious penalties, including fines and/or imprisonment, apply for starting a fire without a permit during the Bush Fire Danger Period.
For further information on how you can protect your property, or to download a Bush Fire Survival Plan, visit the NSW RFS website at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au or phone the Hunter Valley Fire Control Centre on 6575 1200.
