Liverpool Range Zone Rural Fire Service district services officer Graham Brown said the season, which officially began on September 1, was off to a dry and windy start and warned residents to be on alert.

“We’ve had a few fires in the zone already, mostly accidental escapes from farming activities, such as welding,” Mr Brown said.

“We also had a fire at Willow Tree last night and the strong wind really drove the fire along, luckily it was quickly contained by crews and on-scene equipment.”

He said planning and preventative measures were necessary for the months ahead.

“The most important warning is if you are planning any operations, especially hot work operations, make sure you have fire fighting equipment available,”Mr Brown said.

“Keep an eye on the weather and plan operations accordingly.

“If conducting harvest, make sure your equipment is kept clean and again have something on hand to quickly contain it yourself should you have a fire.

“In any case, if a fire is to start, ring 000 immediately and make sure you give your full address, including your rural address, which in Gunnedah is the yellow post with a lot number. This is the quickest way for services to pinpoint your location.”

Mr Brown said keeping properties well maintained and ensuring fire breaks are in place can help prevent the spread of fire.

“Our advice is to clear areas around homes and shed yards to reduce the impact of flames on these areas,” Mr Brown said.

“There is a lot of hay around this year I believe, so we urge people to regularly check it so it won’t combust, keep equipment separate and have water supplies available.

“All landholders should have fire breaks on boundary fences to reduce the risk of fires spreading from neighbour to neighbour as well.”

Mr Brown reminds residents of the penalties in place for fires without permits during the bush fire season and total fire ban periods.

“Permits are now required for all fires in the open, with the exception of small camp or cooking fires,” he said.

“Unfortunately we have already issued a number of warning letters this year.

“If these people do it again they will be open to a substantial fine from as little as $600 or in excess of $5000, depending on the circumstances.

“We also remind people that in the case of a total fire ban or fire danger rating of very high or above, all permits are suspended.”

Mr Brown urged residents to visit www.rfs.nsw.gov.au to find out more about bushfire survival plans and equipment.