Extreme heatwave conditions this week are expected to raise fire danger, according to the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS).
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The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting extreme heatwave conditions for the majority of the Southern Tablelands area from Wednesday,January 16 until Friday, January 18.
NSW RFS Superintendent Peter Alley said the latest forecasts indicate very hot days for the remainder of the week, which will increase the Fire Danger Rating.
“Temperatures are expected in the high 30’s to low 40’s through until Friday and as a result the fire danger is likely to be elevated to Very High,” Superintendent Alley said.
Under these conditions if a fire was to start and take hold, it may be uncontrollable.
Superintendent Alley urged all landholders to be aware of how fires can start and minimise their risks.
“Landholders are encouraged to defer outdoor mechanical works during the heat of the day. It can take just one spark to start a fire,” he said.
“Residents should have a conversation with their family, make sure their Bush Fire Survival Plan is up to date, stay alert and know what it is you and your family will do if threatened by a bush or grass fire.”
Residents can stay informed by checking the NSW Rural Fire Service website (www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information), by calling the Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737 or by downloading the ‘Fires Near Me’ app for smart devices.
Should residents see an unattended fire, they should report it to Triple Zero (000) immediately.