Susanna Freymark
A High Fire Danger has been declared for tomorrow, Thursday, October 2.
Because of this, all fire permits in the Northern Rivers including Kyogle, and Richmond Valley are suspended for 24 hours starting from midnight tonight.
Any existing fires must be extinguished immediately.
If you have done any burning in the last 14 days, ensure that fire is out
Today, Wednesday, October 1, is the official start of the bush fire season and the Bush Fire Danger Period.
Currently, three fires are burning in Richmond Valley at Belmore State Forest (809ha), Busby’s Flat (370ha) and at Ellangowan.
The fires are in sandstone country with rigorous terrain.
NSW RFS Superintendent Daniel Ainsworth said people have been caught out by the dry and windy conditions.
The fires burning now are likely to burn 1500 to 2000ha, he said.
Next week there is a prediction of five days in a row of temperatures over 30 degrees. It is likely that fire permits will be suspended for this time too.
Once the 24-hour suspension period is over, and you’re planning on doing a burn, you’ll require a fire permit from your local Fire Control Centre or NSW Rural Fire Service brigade.
Residents and landholders must know the rules when it comes to the use of fire, the RFS said.
“Along with having the required fire permits, you need to notify your local fire authority and neighbours of your intent to burn at least 24 hours in advance.”
For more information on the Bush Fire Danger Period and requirements around safe burning, visit the RFS website.