THE bushfire danger period has begun in the Murray River Council area, with a permit now required to light a fire.
NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) Inspector Doug Adamson said the danger period would be enforced across the Mid Murray zone, comprising the Edward River Council, Murray River Council and part of the Murrumbidgee Council south of Coleambally.
“From October 1, 2022, any person wishing to light a fire in the Mid Murray zone will require a permit,” Insp Doug Adamson said.
Permits can be attained from their local brigade or the fire control centre.
People burning with a fire permit must comply with standard permit conditions, which includes notifying your neighbours at least 24 hours prior to burning; notifying the RFS via the NOTIFY portal on the RFS website (www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/notify) 24 hours prior to burning and notifying your local brigade captain on each day you burn.
Other conditions include installing a fire break around the area to be burnt and a person in attendance while the fire is alight.
“However, even with a permit, you need to check whether a Total Fire Ban is in force before lighting any fires,” Insp Adamson said.
Residents should also continue with their hazard reduction activities.
“We have all seen the devastation that bush fires can bring to a community, so I strongly advise residents to contact their local brigades and use their expertise to assist in carrying out safe hazard reductions,” Insp Adamson said.
