NSW RFS Superintendent Peter Alley said the Bush Fire Danger Period usually ended on March 31, but had been extended this year due to prevailing weather conditions in the Southern Tablelands area.

“The extension means anyone wishing to light a fire in the Yass Valley, Goulburn/Mulwaree and Upper Lachlan Shire local government area’s will still require a permit,” Superintendent Alley said.

“Fire permits are free and available from your local fire station or Fire Control Centre. 

“Residents must also notify neighbouring land owners and their local fire authority 24 hours prior to burning.”

Superintendent Alley said the decision to extend the Bush Fire Danger Period was made in consultation with the Southern Tablelands Bush Fire Management Committee and local NSW RFS captains.

“These decisions are never made lightly and involve a number of stakeholders from the local area,” Superintendent Alley said.

“Our overriding concern is the safety of all residents and we have acted accordingly by extending the Bush Fire Danger Period until April 30 2017.

“Now is not the time for anyone to become complacent about the risk of bush fires and I urge all residents to have a completed Bush Fire Survival Plan available, and to report any unattended fires they see to Triple Zero (000) immediately.”