MACHINERY use has been identified as the main cause behind a spate of fires that put NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) crews to the test in Bathurst, Oberon and Lithgow.
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The NSW RFS has warned people to be extremely vigilant after they responded to 51 bush and grass fires in recent weeks.
These fires were mainly started by the use of machinery during hot, dry and windy conditions and they spread very quickly, in some cases racing towards homes.
One of these such fires was a 40-hectare blaze at Laffing Waters on Monday, where the quick response by RFS volunteers was able to prevent any threat to property.
At times, the flames there were as high as three metres.
NSW RFS Superintdendent Greg Sim the current conditions increase the potential of fire, particularly this weekend where temperatures are predicted to be as high as 40 degrees.
“The increased risk of grass fires is not only due to rain late last year and vegetation growth, yet also due to the increased fire danger with the current weather conditions," he said.
“With the grass now curing or drying out, any works done that may cause a spark has the potential to cause a significant grass or bush fire and danger the lives and property of people nearby.
“The swift work of our volunteer brigades, along with aircraft and heavy plant in dangerous conditions has stopped these fires before they caused major damage. However the risk of more fires remains as more hot weather is predicted.”
People, farmers in particular, are asked to use their judgement to delay works using slashing, harvesting, welding, grinding equipment or any other machinery that has the potential to start fires during hot, dry and windy conditions.
“If works are to be carried out, ensure all proper precautions are followed, including having fire fighting equipment readily available,” Supt Sim said.
Farmers are also encouraged to help protect their properties by establishing firebreaks around paddocks, homes and other assets.
Supt Sim also noted that “persons who start a fire, even accidentally, face the prospect of fines or police action”.
Anyone who spots a fire should call Triple-0.
Advice from the NSW RFS for farmers:
- Have a Bush Fire Survival Plan in place for days of increased fire danger.
- Smoking should not be allowed during harvesting, or in or near haysheds.
- Ensure you have a full knapsack, spray pumper or hand-held chemical fire extinguisher in good working order when doing any hot works, slashing or similar activity.
- Take extreme care when using cutters and welders to repair plant equipment.
- Ensure that machinery components, including brakes and bearings, do not overheat. These components can drop hot metal onto the ground, starting a fire.
- Use machinery correctly to avoid overheating.
- Be aware of sparks caused by the blades of slashers, mowers and similar equipment hitting rocks or metal – these can ignite dry grass.
