A Total Fire Ban has been declared across parts of NSW today, with warm and windy conditions forecast.
A Total Fire Ban has been declared across parts of NSW today, with warm and windy conditions forecast.
The ban covers the Central Rangers, with the Orange City Council area affected.
Also covered are Greater Sydney (including Blue Mountains and Central Coast), Illawarra/Shoalhaven, Greater Hunter, Southern Ranges, Far South Coast, North Western, Monaro Alpine, Upper Central West Plains, Lower Central West Plains and Far Western.
NSW RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said the wind was going to be the main concern across a large part of the state, with gusts of around 100 kilometres an hour forecast.
“Under these conditions, any fires which do start have the potential to spread quickly and prove quite challenging for firefighters.
“For this reason, we’re asking everyone to take precautions, be aware of their surroundings and report any fires to Triple Zero.”
During a Total Fire Ban no fire may be lit in the open and all Fire permits are suspended. This includes incinerators and barbecues which burn solid fuel, e.g. wood or charcoal.
You may use a gas or electric barbecue but only by complying with several restrictions.
Lighting a fire on a day of Total Fire Ban attracts a fine of up to $5500 and/or 12 months jail.
Penalties for a fire that escapes and damages or destroys life, property or the environment can attract much greater fines and gaol terms with maximums at $100,000 and/or 14 years gaol.