RFS NSW warned residents from Wagga, Junee, Lockhart and Coolamon shires this year’s fire season could be lengthy, following reports there would be little rain to quench the thirst of drought-affected land this summer.

Any person wishing to light a fire will require a permit from October 1. These can be obtained from local brigades or the region’s Fire Control Centre. All fire permits will be automatically revoked on days when a total fire ban is declared. 

NSW RFS Inspector Scott Conlan urged bush-bound residents to have a bushfire survival plan ready to put into action, should they need to evacuate suddenly. 

He said residents should:

“Remove flammable materials from their yards, clear leaves from gutters, check hoses can reach all around the house and where appropriate [and] conduct hazard reduction activities” to protect their homes.

Visit rfs.nsw.gov.au for more information.