Bush Fire danger period ends next Tuesday

Fire permits will no longer be required for the Forbes, Lachlan, Parkes and Weddin local government areas.

“All members of the public must still abide by the law when conducting agricultural burns,” NSW RFS Superintendent Ken Neville said.

“Even though a fire permit is no longer a requirement, residents must still notify their neighbours and the local fire authority 24 hours before burning.

“People should also have sufficient equipment to control and contain the fire to their property. 

“Despite these milder conditions, there is always the potential for fires to threaten life, property and the environment, if not managed correctly.”

Superintendent Neville said the local community should not become complacent now that the danger period is virtually over.  

Residents are reminded that “failing to notify” and “allowing fire to escape” are offences that are enforceable all year round and can incur large fines under the Rural Fires Act 1997.

Recently a man in the Bathurst area was issued $4400 worth of penalty notices for lighting an illegal fire which put a volunteer fire fighter in hospital.

“I urge all residents to take the threat of bush fire seriously,” Superintendent Neville said.