And, the NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) is urging residents to prepare for the season now. 

While October 1 is the official commencement of the 2017 bush fire season, some areas have already began their danger period due to continuing dry conditions. 

NSW RFS Inspector Mick Holland is urging residents to have a Bush Fire Survival Plan and ensure all members of the household know what to do on days of increased fire danger and if their home is threatened by fire. 

Residents should prepare their property by removing materials that can burn around your home and yards, mow your grass and have a cleared area around your home, trim overhanging branches, clear and remove leaves and debris from your gutters and around your home, prepare a study hose that reaches all around your home, and, where appropriate, conduct hazard reduction activities. 

“While it is important to continue hazard reduction, we have all seen the devastation that bush fires can bring to a community, so I strongly urge people to exercise caution when carrying out these activities,” Inspector Holland 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. 

“With summer conditions becoming more conducive to the spread of fire, people need to be extremely careful when using fire.

“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 respond accordingly and minimise the damage.” 

During the Bush Fire Danger Period, any person wishing to light a fire will require a permit in the following local government areas: 

* Muswellbrook 

* Singleton 

On days of Total Fire Ban, all Fire Safety Permits and Bush Fire Hazard Reduction Certificates are automatically suspended. 

To check the Fire Danger Ratings for your area, visit www.rfs.nsw.gov.au or contact your local Fire Control Centre.