TEMPERATURES more than 10 degrees above average have got firefighters on high alert about what could unfold in the coming days.
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On Wednesday, Bathurst is forecast to swelter through a top temperature of 41 degrees, well above the long-term average maximum temperature of 28.4 degrees.
NSW Rural Fire Service Chifley/Lithgow Team operational officer Brett Taylor said that it is possible the “right conditions” would exist this week, leading to fires in the region.
“We’re very concerned because, yes we’ve had rain, but it has been very isolated,” he said.
While most fires in the Bathurst area start from either lightning strikes or camp fires, it is not unheard of for machinery to cause a blaze.
That is why people are asked to be extremely careful during the high fire danger.
“If you are on a farm or an acreage, have a look at what you’re doing if you are using machinery that does generate a lot of heat and maybe do that work early in the morning,” Mr Taylor said.
People should also reduce the risk of fire at their properties by clearing gutters, removing overhanging branches and keeping lawns short.
Mr Taylor said driveways should also be kept clear.
People who don’t think they would be in a position to defend their properties in case of fire, should also head into town and leave the firefighting to the professionals.
Mr Taylor also said it was crucial for people to be aware of what was happening around them, which is where the Fires Near Me app comes in handy.
He said if anyone spots an unattended fire or smoke column, they should call Triple-0 immediately.
RFS crews have been preparing for the exceedingly hot days and are in the best possible position to respond.
