GFMC: Bush and Forest Fires in Australia

  Australia 

Early Start of Fire Season

1 September 2004


NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) Commissioner Phil Koperberg today announced the Bush Fire Danger Period is being brought forward to 1 September in Bombala, Cooma Monaro, Snowy River, Lake George, Queanbeyan and Eastern Capital City Local Government Areas.

The Commissioner said the early declarations had become necessary due to the current prolonged dry conditions.

“With the lack of rain across the state in recent months the amount of moisture in the soil and fuel has declined significantly, increasing the risk of fire. In these dry conditions, fires are acting more aggressively than would be expected during the winter months,” said Commissioner Koperberg.

“By limiting fires in the declared areas to only those with permits we will be better able manage them and prevent major blazes. Winds and very dry vegetation are turning fires which would usually be of low intensity and easy to control into significant grass and bushfires that in some cases threaten property.

“Private landowners must do hazard reduction work, but it must be done responsibly – check the weather forecast and advise fire authorities before lighting up. Property owners should not `panic burn’ in the lead up to 1 September just to avoid having to get a permit.

“You can be fined for allowing a burn to escape and we will be assisting police to penalise people who allow fires to threaten life, property and the environment.

“Burning is not the only option – landowners should consider slashing, trittering, mowing and taking vegetation and waste to the tip,” the Commissioner said.

If you do have to burn:
– Ask the RFS for further advice, permits and approvals
– Check weather conditions
– Delay the burn if concerning winds are forecast
– Create proper fire breaks
– Have adequate water resources on hand
– Supervise the fire at all times
– Call triple zero (000) immediately if fire escapes.

Source: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

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