RESIDENTS are urged to prepare for the upcoming bushfire period, after a "destructive season" that saw homes destroyed and lives lost in the region.
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From November 1 until March 31, the Bushfire Danger Period comes into effect for Wagga, Coolamon, Junee and Lockhart.
NSW Rural Fire Service Operational Officer Bradley Stewart said now is the time for residents and land managers to start preparing for the threat of bush and grass fire.
"Last season was an exceptionally destructive season, in terms of area burnt, lives lost and homes destroyed," he said.
"We cannot be complacent coming into this season thinking that we won't see fire activity again due to the forecast wet summer.
"Bush and grass fires can strike at any time, and it is vitally important that our community are prepared."
Mr Stewart said land managers and farmers are reporting significant crop and grass growth across the wider area, which is a welcome change.
But, he added, once dry or cured, this will bring an unwelcome threat of grass fires.
"Increased grass growth due to recent rain could prove problematic over coming weeks and months," he said.
"With summer conditions becoming more conducive to the spread of fire, people need to be very cautious when using fire."
Mr Stewart said people wishing to light a fire in the open would require a permit, which can be obtained from the local rural fire brigade.
He added it was imperative for residents to start taking steps to reduce the risk.
"This means doing simple things like cleaning your gutters, removing combustibles from your yard and ensuring hoses can reach all corners of your property," Mr Stewart said.
"I encourage households to update their bush fire survival plan and make sure the whole family knows what to do when faced with a fire. It could save your life.
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"Ask yourself, when will you go, what you will take and where will you go."
Snowy Valleys Mayor James Hayes said residents needed to play their part in shoring up the region against the risk of fires.
The Bushfire Danger period for the Snowy Valleys is already underway.
Cr Hayes said the council is working with the RFS on the best way to develop a bushfire readiness plan.
"We are also trying to work with Crown Lands on minimising some of the fuel loads," he said.
As the state heads into summer, Cr Hayes also encouraged residents to consider signing up to volunteer with the RFS or other organisations that assist with the recovery effort.
"They always need more hands on deck," he said.