A TOTAL fire ban has been declared for Bathurst for Wednesday, January 11 due to forecast hot and windy conditions.
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The total fire ban, commencing at midnight on Tuesday, covers the entire Bathurst local government area.
A very high fire danger rating will be in place.
Bathurst residents are advised to keep themselves informed and monitor conditions and be ready to act if necessary.
People are also asked to review their Bushfire Survival Plan with their family.
Total fire ban rules
- No fires may be lit in the open and all fire permits are suspended during a total fire ban. Gas and electric barbeques may be used provided certain conditions are met.
- Lighting a fire on a day of total fire ban attracts an on the spot fine of $2200.
- The penalty for tossing a lit cigarette doubles during a Total Fire Ban from $660 to $1320.
Under ‘very high’ fire conditions, the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) provides the following advice:
- Well prepared homes that are actively defended can provide safety during a fire
- Follow your Bushfire Survival Plan and remain vigilant
- Keep informed by listening to local radio, watching television news broadcasts and monitoring www.rfs.nsw.gov.au.
The RFS may request that harvesting operations and other machinery use stop in grassland, paddocks and on roadsides
You can report people who throw lit cigarettes from a vehicle by going to the RFS website or calling the Bushfire Information Line on 1800 679 737.
Other Central West council areas included in the total fire ban are: Blayney, Cabonne, Cowra, Lithgow, Mid Western, Oberon and Orange.
Nadine Morton
Nadine Morton covers emergency services and breaking news for the Illawarra Mercury. She takes pride in regional journalism which she believes is crucial to informing our towns and cities. Have a story? Email her at nadine.morton@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Nadine Morton covers emergency services and breaking news for the Illawarra Mercury. She takes pride in regional journalism which she believes is crucial to informing our towns and cities. Have a story? Email her at nadine.morton@austcommunitymedia.com.au
