With seasonal forecasts predicting an above average risk of grass and bush fires over western NSW the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) is warning residents to prepare their properties now. Recent wet weather has resulted in high grass fuel loads across the South West Slopes Zone that will now present a serious fire threat when the grass fuel dries off.
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The NSW RFS group captains, located within the area are warning all residents to be prepared. Boorowa based RFS Group Captain Andrew Southwell said that the current grass fuel levels across the area were very high and residents needed to take action now to minimise the risk of fires on their properties. Group Captain Southwell emphasised the need for all landholders to ensure that they clean around houses and sheds, keep grass short and green, if possible, and clean up any material that can burn.
Young-based Group Captain Steve May reminded landholders and contractors to ensure that privately owned equipment used for firefighting, such as portable tanks, pumps and hoses, are maintained and ready for the fire season. A well maintained, and easily accessible, portable fire fighting pump and tank can quickly stop a small fire from escalating.
Harden-based NSW RFS Group Captain Peter Holding asked residents to visually inspect their electrical service cables running between the transformer and buildings for fatigue or points of obvious damage. Report any faults that could result in a fire ignition to Essential Energy.
Cootamundra-based NSW RFS Group Captain David Holder encouraged landholders to use common sense as we head into the fire season. He reminded people to avoid activities such as grinding and welding on bad days with hot and windy conditions.
Due to the later-than-normal start to the bush fire danger period residents have time to ensure their properties and equipment are well prepared for the bush fire season.
For current incidents, major fire updates, or information regarding preparing your property for bush fire season, visit www.rfs.nsw.gov.au
Residents are reminded that the bushfire danger period started on November 1 and permits are required for burning to be undertaken. Permits can be obtained from your local NSW RFS brigade. Please contact the South West Slopes Zone Fire Control Centre on 6386 3170 if you would like to be put in contact with your local brigade.