Today has been declared a day of Total Fire Ban for the South Western Fire District of NSW including the Wentworth and Balranald Shire Council areas.
A total fire ban means no fires out in the open.
During a Total Fire Ban you cannot light, maintain or use a fire in the open, or to carry out any activity in the open that causes, or is likely to cause, a fire.
General purpose hot works (such as welding, grinding or gas cutting or any activity that produces a spark or flame) are not to be done in the open.
The NSW RFS strongly recommends you reconsider activities such as such using a tractor or slashing, to help reduce the chance of a fire starting on your property.
You can use an electric barbeque for cooking as long as it is under the direct control of a responsible adult, who is present at all times while it is operating, and no combustible material is allowed within two metres at any time it is operating.
You can use a gas barbeque under the following conditions:
- It is under the direct control of a responsible adult, who is present at all times while it is operating;
- No combustible material is allowed within two metres at any time it is operating;
- You have an immediate and continuous supply of water; and
- The barbeque is within 20 metres of a permanent private dwelling such as a home; or
- The barbeque is within a designated picnic area and the appliance is approved by Council, National Parks or State Forest.
A barbeque or wood fire pizza oven which uses solid fuel, such as wood, charcoal or heat beads, cannot be used outside during a Total Fire Ban.
Fire Permits are suspended on days of total fire ban.
Permits may resume after the total fire ban is lifted, as long as the permit hasn’t expired.
Image: https://pixabay.com/photos/wildfire-forest-fire-bushfire-fire-6525008/
