NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons has warned residents of the ongoing threat of grass fires.
Following above average rainfall across NSW and some of the hottest weather on record last year, Commissioner Fitzsimmons said it was crucial to remain vigilant about grass fire potential.
“After a wet and warm 2016, increased vegetation growth has dried out and that is now causing real concern,” he said.
Commissioner Fitzsimmons said grass land covered about 80 per cent of NSW.
“After warm and windy conditions over recent weeks, particularly west of the divide, the landscape is now very much susceptible to fire,” he said..
“Grass and crop fires can be especially dangerous because they start easily and spread rapidly.
“They can destroy not only homes and stock, but also lives and livelihoods.”
“Grass and crop fires can be especially dangerous because they start easily and spread rapidly."
- RFS Commisioner Shane Fitzsimmons
Commissioner Fitzsimmons said recent fires around the state had brought home the need to be prepared.
“Grass fires can move more than three times as fast as a bush fire,” he said.
“As we’ve seen, they can take hold rapidly and lead to much devastation.”
Commissioner Fitzsimmons said there were couple of steps people could take now to prepare for the increased risk.
“Farmers can help protect their properties by establishing firebreaks around paddocks, homes and other valuable assets like sheds and equipment,” he said.
“Firebreaks can assist in slowing a fire’s spread and also help stop a fire from entering or leaving a property.
“We’re also asking motorists and those travelling to avoid driving through or stopping in long grass, even if it’s just for a few minutes, as the heat from a car’s exhaust can be enough to start a fire.”
Commissioner Fitzsimmons said people living in areas near crops and grass growth should have a plan for what they would do if there was a fire.
“Make a bush fire survival plan and discuss it with your family.”
Commissioner Fitzsimmons stressed the importance of reporting unattended fires to Triple Zero (000) as soon possible.
“The earlier we can respond, the better chance we have to significantly reduce the damage caused by fire,” he said.
“Grass fires can move more than three times as fast as a bush fire.
“Act now, be prepared and survive.”
Visit the NSW RFS website for more information.