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Bush Fire Danger Period in the Tweed starts on Friday 1 September 2023.
The NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) has permanently brought forward the start of Bush Fire Danger Period in over 25 local government areas across NSW. The Bush Fire Danger Period in the Tweed previously started on 1 October each year, and now starts on 1 September each year.
Changing climate patterns, including longer dry periods and less predictable rainfall are some of the reasons the NSW RFS made the decision to permanently bring Bush Fire Danger Period forward by a month.
Residents must get a fire permit before lighting any fire during Bush Fire Danger Period. Getting a permit is free, easy, and helps ensure fire is used safely. To apply for a permit contact your local Fire Control Centre or visit rfs.nsw.gov.au.
Council encourages residents living in bush fire prone areas to start preparing now for the upcoming bush fire season by knowing your risk, preparing your home and having a Bush Fire Survival Plan in place.
Having a plan in place could save a life and it only takes 10 minutes to complete. Start planning now to protect your home and loved ones.
For help preparing your plan visit rfs.nsw.gov.au/resources/bush-fire-survival-plan.
There are a number of preventative measures residents can take around their home to prepare for a bush fire, including:
- cleaning gutters of leaves and twigs
- installing metal gutter guards
- repairing damaged or missing tiles on the roof
- installing fine metal mesh screens on windows and doors
- fitting seals around doors and windows to eliminate gaps
- enclosing areas under your house, if possible
- repairing or covering gaps in external walls
- attaching a fire sprinkler system to gutters
- keeping lawns short and gardens well maintained
- cutting back trees and shrubs overhanging buildings
- cleaning up fallen leaves, twigs and debris around the property
- having hoses long enough to reach around your house
- if you have a pool, tank or dam, put a Static Water Supply (SWS) sign on your property entrance, so firefighters know where they can get water
- checking and maintaining up-to-date and adequate levels of home and contents insurance.
Take these simple actions now to be better prepared during the bush fire season.
To report a bush fire hazard near your property, submit a Bush Fire Hazard Complaint Form at rfs.nsw.gov.au/plan-and-prepare/know-your-risk/Bush-fire-hazards-and-your-property/reporting-a-bush-fire-hazard2.
NSW Rural Fire Service will inspect the site and if there is a hazard, will issue a notice to the landowner to remove the hazard.
To report a bush fire, call 000. For more information visit the RFS website rfs.nsw.gov.au or visit Council’s website tweed.nsw.gov.au/bushfires.
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