The Bush Fire Danger Period (BFDP) begins in the Nambucca and Kempsey Local Government Areas from midnight tonight and the NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) is urging residents to prepare now.
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NSW RFS Superintendent Lachlann Ison said the commencement of the BFDP was an opportune time for local residents to make and discuss their bush fire survival plans.
"Having a bush fire survival plan will ensure all members of the household know what to do on days of increased fire danger and what to do if their home is threatened by fire," Superintendent Ison said.
Superintendent Ison said with summer approaching Kempsey and Nambucca residents need to be aware and understand how quickly fire can spread, people need to be extremely careful when using fire.
"Residents should prepare their property by removing flammable materials from their yards, clearing leaves from gutters, checking hoses can reach all around the house and where appropriate, conducting hazard reduction activities.
"Never leave a fire unattended and if a fire does escape, it is essential to call Triple Zero (000) immediately so that emergency services can respond accordingly and minimise damage," Superintendent Ison said.
During the BFDP, land owners are required to obtain a Fire Permit from their local Fire Control Centre before lighting any fires, including hazard reduction burns.
"Residents who are planning to burn off can now provide notification online at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/notify, or call 6626 6860 if no internet.
On days of Total Fire Ban all Fire Permits are automatically revoked. Information about hazard reduction burning and required notifications is available on the NSW RFS website at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/BFDP.