AS the drought continues to grip the state, more than 50 local government areas (LGAs), including Muswellbrook Shire, Singleton and Upper Hunter Shire, started the Bush Fire Danger Period at the weekend.
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The NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) declared 53 LGAs would begin the initiative from September 1 - bringing the total number to 74.
"Over the past two months, we've seen more than 2700 bush and grass fires, which have unfortunately destroyed homes, impacted property and closed roads," Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said.
"Due to the forecast of ongoing warm and dry conditions and, in consultation with local volunteers, land managers and fire agencies, we've brought forward the start of the season in a number of areas."
The normal Bush Fire Danger Period starts on October 1 each year.
Anyone wishing to light a fire during the period must obtain a permit from their local Fire Control Centre.
"Permits ensure that fire is used safely and to minimise the danger to landholders, their property and the community," Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.
"While hazard reductions are an important part of preparations, landholders need to be extremely careful as warmer and dry conditions mean fire can spread quickly and suddenly.
"Never leave a fire unattended and, if a fire does escape, make sure you call Triple Zero (000) immediately so that emergency services can respond and minimise the damage."
Commissioner Fitzsimmons urged homeowners to prepare for the upcoming fire season, noting warmer than average temperatures and below average rainfall are forecast for the coming months.
"Recent research has indicated that 67 per cent of people had some sort of plan of what to do in the event a fire threatens," he said.
"While it is encouraging that two thirds of people have discussed what they'll do, our data also shows that many people's plans are simple, and often not well thought through.
"We want people to ask themselves how fireproof is your plan?
"Have the conversation with your family about what you will do during a fire - including where you'll go, what you'll take and what you'll do with animals."
For information about permits and fire danger ratings, go to www.rfs.nsw.gov.au