These hotter, drier conditions we’re already experiencing, unfortunately means fires are more likely to start and spread quickly. 

From here on out, fire permits will be required across Port Stephens, Cessnock, Dungog and Maitland local government areas.

But when conditions are particularly bad, such as on days of Severe, Extreme or Catastrophic Fire Danger, the NSW Rural Fire Service may declare a Total Fire Ban, prohibiting the lighting of any fire in the open, even if you have a fire permit.

On a day of Total Fire Ban the lighting of fires is prohibited.

This includes cooking fires using incinerators and barbecues which burn solid fuel, such as wood or charcoal.

Gas or electric barbecues are permitted under the following conditions:

They are on residential property within 20 meters of the house or dwelling;

They are in a picnic area and the appliance is approved by Council, National Parks and Wildlife Services or State Forest;

They are under the direct control of a responsible adult;

The ground around a barbecue is cleared for two meters of all material which could burn;

And you have an immediate and continuous supply of water available.

Our advice is this – we urge all residents in the Port Stephens, Cessnock, Dungog and Maitland local government areas to be vigilant and extremely careful with fire during the Bush Fire Danger Period.

Every resident should have a Bush Fire Survival Plan so they know what to do on days of increased fire danger and can immediately put their plan into action if their home is threatened by fire.

Information about Total Fire Ban declarations is published at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au.

Residents from the above mentioned local government areas can also call the Lower Hunter Fire Control Centre on 4015 0000 or the Bushfire Information Line on 1800 NSW RFS (1800 679 737).

NSW RFS Inspector Martin Siemsen has over 20 years’ experience, across numerous roles with Rural Fire Brigades from the Blue Mountains to Campbelltown, Hawkesbury to Singleton, and Maitland.