The NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) has suspended fire permits until further notice in the Greater Taree and Port Macquarie-Hastings local government areas due to the continuing dry conditions.
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NSW RFS Inspector Guy Duckworth said the decision to suspend fire permits had been made in order to help keep the local community safe from bush and grass fires.
“In hot, dry and windy conditions fires can start quickly and spread rapidly which has been evident with the wild-fire activity in recent weeks. There is potential for dangerous fire weather to eventuate in the coming weeks as we head into spring and summer,” Inspector Duckworth said.
“Just one spark from a permit burn can cause a fire to spread and threaten life and property.
“While fire permits have been suspended, we encourage residents to undertake other activities to protect their property from fire, such as clearing leaves from their gutters and removing flammable materials from around their homes.”
Serious penalties, including fines and/or imprisonment, apply for starting a fire without a permit during the Bush Fire Danger Period.
Permits may be authorised in exceptional circumstances, such as burning diseased animals. To request an exemption, contact the Mid Coast Fire Control Centre on 6588 9000.
For further information on how you can protect your property, or to download a Bush Fire Survival Plan, visit the NSW RFS website at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au