NSW Rural Fire Service warns of increased bush fire danger

The New South Wales Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) has issued warnings regarding illegal and mismanaged fires as the bush fire danger period approaches. In 27 local government areas, the danger period is set to begin on September 1, ahead of the statewide statutory commencement on October 1.

Superintendent Ugo Tolone noted an increase in careless fires in the Mid Coast and Port Macquarie-Hastings areas, citing drying landscape conditions and increasing fuel availability. Under the Rural Fires Act 1997, landholders are responsible for ensuring any fire is safely managed and monitored until fully extinguished.

During the danger period, landholders must obtain a fire permit from their local fire control centre before lighting any fires, including hazard reduction burns. On total fire ban days, all hazard reduction certificates are automatically suspended. Authorities have advised residents to prepare properties by clearing gutters of leaves, removing flammable materials, and ensuring hoses can reach all sides of their homes.