FIREFIGHTERS from NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS), Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW), National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) and Forestry Corporation NSW (FCNSW) are working on several fires in the Muswellbrook and Singleton Local Government areas which are believed to have started from lightning storms that have passed through the area recently.
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There are currently nine fires in the Hunter Valley district area, one is being controlled and the others are contained.
There is no current threat to property at this stage.
With a Total Fire Ban declared for the Greater Hunter on Sunday, operational officer Leanne Bell is urging residents stay up to date and keep safe on a day of increased fire danger.
She said with an increase in the fire danger for tomorrow, it’s essential that everyone knows where to get important information and advice.
“We’re facing a very real risk of bush fires tomorrow, so it’s crucial that people remain vigilant.” operational officer Bell said.
She added residents should check the NSW RFS website or the ‘Fires Near Me’ app for updates on fires, as well as listening to local radio for information.
“I encourage everyone to follow the NSW RFS Facebook and Twitter accounts for real-time updates, information and warnings.
“The Bush Fire Information Line is also an excellent source of information and can be reached at 1800 679 737.”
Operational officer Bell said that due to the increase in the fire danger on Sunday, a Total Fire Ban has been declared for the Greater Hunter area.
“A Total Fire Ban means no fires out in the open.
“It helps limit the potential of fires developing.
“During a Total Fire Ban you cannot light, maintain or use a fire in the open, or carry out any activity in the open that causes, or is likely to cause, a fire. No general purpose hot works, such as welding or gas cutting can be done in the open.
“The NSW RFS strongly recommends you reconsider activities such as such using a tractor or slashing, to help reduce the chance of a fire starting on your property.”
You can use gas or electric BBQ’s but there are conditions.
For more information on Total Fire Bans go to www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/fdr-and-tobans or call the Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737.
