New online tool to help NSW landholders when burning off
Published Date: 06 Aug 2020
Summary
A new online portal has been designed to give NSW residents the ability to quickly and easily notify fire services when they're planning to use fire on their property.
BURNING OFF? A new online portal will make it easier for landholders in NSW to notify the Rural Fire Service before conducting their burn.
The NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) portal means residents can use their mobile phone or desktop computer to lodge their notifications about planned hazard reductions or burn-offs 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
NSW RFS Superintendent Ken Neville said in a statement released on Wednesday that by using the new tool, available at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/notify, users can help prevent unnecessary emergency calls.
"As we approach the bush fire season, many landholders are taking the opportunity to burn-off - but it's important they do it safely and let us and their neighbours know," he said.
"Landholders need to make sure they've obtained any required permits and permissions, as well as notifying neighbours and fire authorities 24 hours before lighting up.
"This tool makes it easier to notify the NSW RFS before conducting your burn.
"If fire services know about it, it can help prevent unnecessary emergency calls and firefighters from being responded."
By using the new tool, landholders will be notified of any Total Fire Bans and will be advised to not proceed with their burn.
Superintendent Neville said while landholders are encouraged to reduce fuel loads on their property, it is imperative that it is done so safely and legally.
"Before lighting any fire you need to have adequately prepared fire breaks and have firefighting equipment on hand to ensure the fire does not escape," he said.
"Every landholder has a responsibility to prevent fire spreading from their property and there can be serious consequences for people who light fires and leave them unattended,"
Landholders are encouraged to use the new online burn notification tool at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/notify to notify others of your intent to burn-off.
Landholders can still notify the NSW RFS by contacting their local Fire Control Centre.
