"BUSH FIRE
DANGER SEASON" and "TOTAL FIRE BAN"
What are the Rules?
THE BUSH FIRE DANGER SEASON IS FROM
1st OCTOBER TO 31st MARCH
(This may be varied by local councils.)
Barbecues and camp fires
-
Only light fires in a permanently constructed
fireplace surrounded by ground that is clear of all combustible matter
for a distance of at least 2 metres OR
-
at a site surrounded by ground that is
clear of all combustible matter for a distance of at least 3 metres
-
make sure the fire is completely out before
leaving the area
Smoking
-
Don't drop or throw down any lighted cigarette,
match or anything burning on any land, bridge, wharf, pontoon or similar.
-
Don't light or carry a lighted cigarette
or match within 15m of stacked or standing crops
Burning off in the open
-
you need a permit from your local council
to burn oft (if no council, contact Police)
-
notify your neighbours at least 24 hours
before you light the fire
-
make sure someone is there all the time
the fire is alight
-
observe all conditions of the permit.
During a TOTAL FIRE BAN, no fire may be
lit in the open. This includes incinerators and barbecues which burn solid
fuel, e.g. wood or charcoal.
You may use a gas or electric barbecue,
but only if...
-
it is on a residential property within
20m of the house or dwelling or in an area with council approval and
-
it is under the direct control of an adult
and
-
the ground within 3m of the barbecue is
cleared of all materials which could burn and
-
you have a continuous supply of water
available.
WHEN IS A TOTAL FIRE BAN DECLARED?
On days of extreme fire danger caused
by a combination of certain weather conditions and dry vegetation.
HOW WILL YOU KNOW WHEN A TOTAL FIRE
BAN IS ON?
Through newspapers, radio and TV. lf
in doubt, ask your local Council, NSW Rural Fire Service, the Police, Fire
Brigade or dial 02 9898 1356 (Sydney Metropolitan only).
HOW LONG DOES A TOTAL FIRE BAN LAST?
Usually for 24 hours - from 12 midnight.