Hazard reduction burns are scheduled for mid-April in Hawkesbury and surrounding suburbs and regions.
Crews from the NSW Rural Fire Service, the National Parks and Wildlife Service and Fire Rescue NSW are conducting and will conduct hazard reduction burns as weather conditions are forecast to be favourable.
The reduction burns are planned across the Greater Sydney region, with more than 6,600 hectares set to be treated in the Hawkesbury, Hornsby, Southern Highlands, and Blue Mountains areas.
In the Hawkesbury, the Linden Ridge burn (3,775.68 ha) is expected to conclude on 14 April. The Kurrajong HR burn (460.02 ha) is set to be done on 15 April, while the ‘Agliss’ HR burn at Windsor Downs (92.89 ha) on 13 April.
The RFS said the operations are vital to reducing fuel loads and improving bushfire protection for thousands of homes.
Due to the nature of the operation, smoke is likely to affect parts of Sydney and may continue to linger in some areas depending on weather conditions.
Residents in affected areas are advised to minimise outdoor activities, secure doors and windows, shelter pets, and exercise caution when driving.
Individuals with respiratory or heart conditions, particularly asthmatics, should follow their treatment plans and keep medications readily available. More information on managing bushfire smoke exposure is available at www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/bushfire/Pages/default.aspx.
Commissioner of the RFS, Rob Rogers, reminded the public to remain vigilant and reassured residents that all burns are carefully planned and managed.
“If you see or smell smoke, it is likely part of a planned burn. However, if you see a fire without fire crews present, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.”
He stressed the importance of acting while the weather allows, noting that autumn is traditionally the best time of year to conduct hazard-reduction burns, with almost 60% of planned burns completed during this period.
“After years of wet weather and fire activity that delayed many hazard reduction efforts, we need to make the most of every opportunity to safely carry out this essential work,” Commissioner Rogers said.
“As we prepare for the next fire season, it’s vital we catch up on planned burns to ensure communities are better protected heading into the next season.”
The RFS encourages everyone to stay informed as hazard reduction work continues over the coming months.
A comprehensive list and interactive map of scheduled hazard reduction burns can be found at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/hr or check the Hazards Near Me app.
