Gunnedah, Liverpool Plains bushfire danger period has begun

This year the season began on Tuesday. It would normally start on October 1, but this has been adjusted for Gunnedah, the Liverpool Plains, and 19 other local government areas.

NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) Commissioner Rob Rogers said increased grass growth due to recent rain "could prove problematic over coming weeks and months".

"Landholders and firefighters have reported increased grass growth, particularly west of the divide. Once dry and cured, this will bring an unwelcome threat of grass fires," he said.

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Anyone wishing to light a fire during the danger period must obtain a permit from their local fire control station. For Gunnedah and Liverpool Plains residents, this is the Liverpool Range RFS.

"Permits, which are free to obtain, ensure that fire is used safely and to minimise the danger to landholders, their property and the community," Commissioner Rogers said.

"While hazard reductions burns are an important part of preparations, landholders need to be extremely careful.

"Never leave a fire unattended and if a fire does escape, make sure you call Triple Zero (000) immediately so that emergency services can respond and minimise the damage."

NSW RFS district manager inspector Myles O'Reilly is urging residents to also complete a bushfire survival plan, and to ensure all members of the household know what to do on days of increased fire danger and if their home is threatened by fire.

"All indications suggest that grassfires will be a predominant issue on our landscape this fire season," he said.

"However, residents can help themselves, they can prepare their property by removing flammable materials from their yards, clearing gutters of leaves, checking hoses, and, where appropriate, conducting hazard reduction activities safely."

He stressed that the last fire season showed the devastation that fire could cause.

"You can increase your chances of survival by making a survival plan, knowing your bushfire risk and being aware of your environment."

Heavy fines apply for the unsafe use of fire or if a fire escapes. Don't be the fire risk to the community. Use fire safely.

For further information about the danger period and fire permits, visit www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/BFDP or contact Liverpool Range RFS on 6746 5800.