THE NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) is reminding residents that fire permits will be required during the Bush Fire Danger Period.
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The danger period will commence on Thursday, October 1, for Bathurst Regional Council, Lithgow City Council and Oberon Council residents.
NSW RFS Inspector Mick Holland said people wishing to light a fire in the open can obtain a permit for free, which can be obtained from your local fire station or Fire Control Centre.
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"Please request your fire permit several days before you plan to light the fire to allow time for the area to be inspected and the permit to be issued," he said.
"Many land owners have taken advantage of the conditions during winter to prepare their properties and undertake safe burning activities.
"As the grass will begin to grow and cure as the weather warms up, the risk of grass fires will increase.
"When conditions are particularly bad, such as on days of very high, severe, extreme or catastrophic fire danger, the NSW RFS may declare a total fire ban, prohibiting the lighting of any fire in the open, even if you have a fire permit."
Inspector Holland urged residents within the Bathurst, Lithgow and Oberon area to be "vigilant" and "extremely careful" with fire during the danger period.
"Never leave a fire unattended and if a fire does escape, it is essential to call triple zero immediately so that emergency services can respond accordingly and minimise the damage," he said.
"Every resident should have a Bush Fire Survival Plan so they know what to do on days of increased fire danger and can immediately put their plan into action if their home is threatened by fire."
For further information on how residents can protect their property or to download a bush fire survival plan, visit the NSW RFS website at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au.
Alternatively, you can call 1800 NSW RFS (1800 679 737).
For information on current fires, download the NSW RFS 'Fires Near Me' app on a phone or tablet.