The NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) is urging residents across the Riverina to be prepared as hot, dry and windy conditions are expected to increase the fire danger this weekend.
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According to the NSW RFS there is a "very high" risk of fire on Saturday in the eastern Riverina, including Wagga, Albury, Coolamon, Greater Hume, Junee, Lockhart and towards Temora.
Meanwhile on Saturday there is a "severe" fire risk and Total Fire Ban in place across the southern Riverina, including the local government area's of Berrigan, Edward River, Federation, Murray River, Carrathool, Griffith, Hay, Leeton and Narrandera, as well as in the northern and southern parts of the Murrumbidgee.
The fire risk is heightened due to forecast weather conditions, as well as high grass and crop fuel loads and increased vegetation growth following recent rainfall.
RFS Commissioner Rob Rogers said temperatures are expected to reach the mid-40s and this, coupled with strong, dry and gusty winds, will lead to "the highest fire risk for the season so far".
"Total Fire Bans are likely to be declared for some areas on Saturday and again on Sunday, so I urge landholders, homeowners, businesses and holidaymakers to consider their risk and what they will do if threatened by fire this weekend," he said.
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The NSW RFS is recommending people living in bushfire prone areas to get ready now by making or reviewing their bushfire survival plan, checking the fire danger for their area and staying up-to-date on fires in their area.
Commissioner Rogers said that although firefighters are ready to respond, the community needs to play their part to help prevent and minimise the impact of fire.
"Preparation is the key and we need families and households to review and discuss their bush fire survival plan so everyone knows what they need to do in the event of a fire," he said.
"With the holidays upon us, if you are travelling, know what the conditions and fire risk are of where you are travelling through and the area you are visiting."
Anyone who sees an unattended fire should call Triple Zero (000) immediately. Information about fire danger ratings and total fire bans can be accessed on the RFS website.
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