TODAY marks the end of the statutory bush fire danger period (BFDP) in NSW.
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From an early start to the season in August 2014, through to March 2015, NSW firefighters responded to more than 9200 bush, grass and scrub fires, which burnt 168,687 hectares across NSW.
These incidents include the three fires in the Pilliga East State Forest just three weeks ago.
Thirteen areas have extended their bush fire period until April 30, due to ongoing dry conditions, including Tamworth Regional Council, but not Gunnedah Shire.
NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said while relatively mild conditions prevailed across the state during summer, there had been several early indications that the season would be a challenging one with above average fire activity.
“As late as November 2014, the Bureau of Meterology was advising that higher than average temperatures would prevail statewide, with an above average likelihood of El Nino further intensifying conditions,” Mr Fitzsimmons said.
“Fortunately, the conditions that did eventuate were less severe than those forecast, providing our members with a welcome reprieve from fighting destructive bush fires during Christmas and the subsequent summer period.”
Mr Fitzsimmons thanked all NSW RFS members and emergency service workers who attended incidents across NSW during the season as well as those who provided assistance interstate, away from their families and friends.
“Throughout the season, NSW RFS volunteers and our emergency service colleagues have spent time away from their loved ones, their jobs and their communities so they can help others and for this they deserve our sincere thanks and gratitude,” Mr Fitzsimmons said.
“I would also like to thank their families and loved ones for the ongoing support because, without that support, our members would simply not be able to do the job they do.”
Mr Fitzsimmons also highlighted the vital role employers play during the bush fire season.
“Without question, the support of employers is one of the key elements in helping NSW RFS volunteers protect their local community and give them the flexibility to contribute to firefighting efforts interstate,” he said.
Mr Fitzsimmons said crews had already begun hazard reduction burning and would conduct further prescribed burns as weather opportunities are presented.”