THE NSW Rural Fire Service has delayed the start of the statutory bush fire danger period across the Far South Coast area due to recent significant rainfall.
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Traditionally, the bush fire danger period begins on September 1 on the Far South Coast.
However, fire permits are not yet required for the Bega Valley and Eurobodalla shires due to continued benign weather conditions and a significant increase in fuel moisture content.
The bush fire danger period for the Bega Valley and Eurobodalla for 2015 will begin on October 1.
NSW RFS Superintendent John Cullen said the significant rainfall event experienced throughout the Far South Coast area has resulted in reduced potential for fire activity across both shires.
“Prior to this rainfall event, many areas were showing signs of drying out and we completed some important hazard reduction burning,” Superintendent Cullen said.
“While the rains have provided a welcome delay to the fire season, the forecast models are indicating that we are likely to experience a challenging summer.
“Landholders are encouraged to take advantage of the milder conditions and use the opportunity to ensure their properties are well prepared for summer.
“Every resident should have a bushfire survival plan and make sure every member of their household knows what to do in the event of a fire.
“If you do wish to burn prior to the commencement of the bush fire danger period, you must still follow all the normal procedures, such as notifying neighbours and your local fire authority, checking whether any further approvals are required and having an adequate water supply on site,” Superintendant Cullen said.
“It is your responsibility to prevent the spread of fire from your property, meaning it is important that you do not leave fires unattended.
“If a fire does escape, it is essential that you call Triple Zero (000) immediately so that emergency services can respond quickly and minimise the damage.”