High fuel loads on the ground have NSW firefighters bracing for a hot bushfire season. Picture: stock
NSW fire authorities are expecting a hot summer with high fuel loads on the ground – and residents are being reminded to plan accordingly.
The NSW bushfire season began on Monday (October 1) and runs until March 31, 2025.
The state government says firefighters have already responded to more than 1600 bush and grass fires since July 1.
NSW Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib says dangerous fire conditions already exist.
“Recent hot, dry and windy weather, rapidly drying out bush and grass land areas, increase the fire risk,” he says.
“With high temperatures forecast this summer, we cannot be complacent.”
Mr Dib says resident need to discuss their bushfire survival plan with family and download the Hazards Near Me app.
NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) Commissioner Rob Rogers says that consecutive years of wet weather have fuelled growth of vegetation like grass lands, particularly west of the Great Dividing Range.
“Grass fires can be especially dangerous because they start quickly and spread rapidly, destroying homes and stock,” he says.
Rogers says firefighting is a shared responsibility and wants property owners to do their part.
“There can never be a fire truck outside every home so people need to have a plan in place if threatened by fire,” he says.
“Make sure your whole family knows whether you will stay and defend your home or will leave early — if so, where you will go?”
Fire and Rescue NSW Acting Commissioner Paul McGuiggan says those planning to travel, especially during the holidays, need to be alert to the risk of fast-moving grass fires.
“Before you leave, check the weather forecast and fire danger ratings for that area and have a plan to leave should a grass or bush fire take hold,” he says
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service Executive Director Park Operations Coastal Naomi Stephens says they are working hard in preparation.
“We are slashing and mowing areas of highest risk next to houses and other property and ensuring that our fire trails are cleared and available for firefighters in the event of bushfire,” she says.
“Our trained firefighters are carrying out hazard reduction burning, where and when conditions allow, to reduce the risk and are ready to respond to bushfires to protect the community and the parks.”
The government has issued precautions that homeowners can take to lower their fire risk. These include:
- Trim overhanging trees and shrubs;
- Mow grass and remove the cuttings and clear an area around your home;
- Remove material that can burn such as door mats, wood piles, mulch and flammable liquids;
- Clear and remove all debris and leaves from gutters;
- Prepare a sturdy hose or hoses that will reach around your home.
Bushfire survival plans and information on preparing property and family are available at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au.
Residents can stay up to date on fires in their area using the RFS website, the Hazards Near Me app, listening to your local radio station, or by calling the RFS Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737.
