Get ready now for high temperatures and increased fire danger
Published Date: 16 Jan 2018
Summary
The NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) is urging residents to get ready now for another period of high temperatures and increased fire danger, with temperatures across the state set to soar above 40 degrees later this week.
The Bureau of Meteorology advises much of New South Wales, including the Greater Sydney, Hunter, Central Ranges, Northern Riverina, Lower Central West Plains and Far Western regions, will experience an extended period of hot and dry weather from this Thursday onwards.
NSW RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said some areas are likely to experience Severe fire danger on Friday, with hot and dry conditions to persist across the weekend.
“Temperatures will reach the mid-40s in a number of areas and the Bureau of Meteorology forecast indicates there is little relief in sight, with little to no rain forecast during the coming hot spell,” Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.
“The forecast heatwave will elevate the risk of fire and Total Fire Bans are likely to be declared for some areas, so I urge landholders, homeowners, businesses and holidaymakers to consider how they will be impacted and begin making their preparations today.”
The NSW RFS recommends people living in bush fire prone areas to get ready now:
Commissioner Fitzsimmons said while NSW RFS, Fire & Rescue NSW, National Parks and Wildlife Service and Forestry Corporation of NSW firefighters are ready to respond, the community needs to play its part to help prevent and minimise the impact of bush and grass fires
“We have seen in the past few days fires, like the one at Port Stephens, spread quickly and threaten communities with little warning,” Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.
“Preparation is the key and we need families and households to make and discuss their bush fire survival plan so everyone knows what they need to do in the event that a fire threatens.”
Anyone who sees an unattended fire should call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
