NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) District Officer, Stuart Robb said this is a significant step forward in communicating important bush and grass fire information to the community.

"Fires Near Me NSW gives users the ability to identify the location and size of bush fire activity in areas of concern for them," Mr Robb said.

"We've been listening to what residents have been asking for and the app now provides the ability for users to receive notifications applicable to our Local Government Area, or set up 'watch zones' to keep updated on specific areas of NSW."

The new update now allows residents to receive push notifications for areas of interest, whether it be their home location, family properties or relatives far away.

In a few short steps, users can set up Watch Zones for more specific information on areas they'd like to keep an eye on.

Mr Robb said this new functionality is an incredibly valuable tool when it comes to preparing for bush or grass fires and being aware of current incidents.

"With more and more people relying on their mobile phones for information, it's important that users download the latest version of the app, available on both Android and iOS devices," Mr Robb said.

"Fires near Me complements the suite of information tools already available to the public, including the NSW RFS website and 1800 Bush Fire Information Line."

Users can search for the Fires Near Me NSW app in the AppStore or Google Play.

There is also a national version, Fires Near Me Australia, which provides basic information from participating fire agencies interstate.

For more information and 'how-to' guides on setting up watch zones and other new functions of Fires Near Me NSW, visit www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/apps

Fires Near Me runs as both a website and a smartphone app providing up to date information and warnings about bush fires and other incidents attended by the NSW RFS.