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Any person wishing to light a fire in the Bega Valley will require a permit from Monday, September 1, when the Bush Fire Danger period beings on the Far South Coast.
“Whilst recent rainfalls have provided some relief from what has been a very dry winter, spring on the Far South Coast is traditionally our windy season,” Bega Valley RFS Superintendent John Cullen said.
“As we witnessed last year, these windy conditions are when we tend to see fires escape and become difficult to control.
“Anybody wishing to light a fire on their property during the Bush Fire Danger Period will require a permit from their local fire station or Fire Control Centre.
“Permit holders are obliged to read and understand the conditions on the permit, which include notifying neighbours and the Fire Control Centre at least 24 hours prior to lighting any fire.
“However, even with a permit you need to check whether a Total Fire Ban is in force before lighting any fires.”
Superintendent Cullen encourages all residents to have a Bush Fire Survival Plan, so all members of their household know what to do on days of increased fire danger, and if their home is threatened by fire.
“We have all seen the devastation that bush fires can bring to a community, so I strongly advise residents to contact their local brigades and use their advice and expertise to assist in carrying out safe hazard reductions,” Superintendent Cullen said.
“Residents also need to check to see if they require any environmental approvals.
“Never leave a fire unattended, and if a fire does escape, it is essential to call 000 immediately so that emergency services can respond accordingly and minimise the damage.”