FIRE PERMITS AND THE BUSH FIRE DANGER PERIOD
The statutory Bush Fire Danger Period for Rural Fire Districts runs from 1st October to 31st March, however these dates may vary due to local conditions. If you are planning to light a fire in the open, you will need a Fire Permit. It is important to note, that if you live within a FRNSW Fire District, you are required to obtain a Fire Permit all year round.
You can apply for a permit online from the RFS. All permits have standard conditions that re listed on the permit form, such as:
1. The permit is to be carried by the permit holder, or another person at all times at the site of the fire.
2. The fire must be supervised at all times.
3. Notifications are given to RFS, FRNSW if required and adjoining neighbours at least 24 hours prior to the fire being lit.
4. The permit may be varied, cancelled or suspended, depending on weather conditions.
Bush fires are more likely to spread and cause damage on days when the weather is very hot, dry and windy. These are very high to extreme fire days. Total Fire Bans are declared on these days to reduce the risk of fires damaging or destroying life, property and environment. Even with a permit, on Total Fire Ban Days or when the Environment Protection Authority declares a NO BURN DAY, the lighting of fire is prohibited and the permit is automatically suspended.
GET READY FOR A BUSH FIRE
Spring has sprung and it’s a prime opportunity for us to start preparing for potential bush fires and constructing your Bush Fire Survival Plan. Bush fire is a part of life in NSW, so you need to live bush fire ready. That means knowing your risk and having a plan for what to do during a fire. If you do not have a Bush Fire Survival Plan, and would like some advice from Glenorie RFS, please reach out to us. Alternatively, you can visit the RFS website at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au
1. DISCUSS WHAT TO DO IF A BUSH FIRE THREATENS YOUR HOME
Many households find that having a discussion over dinner works best as everybody is together and focussed.
2. PREPARE YOUR HOME AND GET IT READY FOR BUSH FIRE SEASON
There are simple things you can do around your home to prepare it for a bush fire, like keeping the grass low and having a cleared area around your home.
3. KNOW THE BUSH FIRE ALERT LEVELS
If there is a fire in your area you will find its alert on the NSW RFS website and in ‘Fires Near Me’ app. You need to keep track of the alert so you know what you should do.
4. KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL BUSH FIRE INFORMATION NUMBERS, WEBSITE AND APPS
In a bush fire, it’s important that you stay up to date on conditions in your area.
WOULD YOU LIKE TO BECOME AN RFS VOLUNTEER?
If you are wanting to give back to your community, and keen to be a part of something meaningful, find out how to join Glenorie RFS by contacting us via our Facebook page, or by phone 02 9652 2017 or visiting the RFS website at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au or simply come in for a chat at the station when on Monday nights from 7:30pm or Saturday from 2:00pm. The station is at 2654 Old Northern Road Glenorie NSW 2157.
