Following the start of the bush fire danger period on 1 October, the NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) has encouraged residents to know and understand their fire risk, with the increased potential for grass fires.

NSW RFS Commissioner Rob Rogers said the official Bush Fire Danger Period (BFDP) begin in a further 92 Local Government Areas on 1 October 2022.

“Recent rain has led to good grass and crop growth across the state especially in western areas of NSW, and with more rain predicted over spring, this vegetation will continue to flourish. said Rogers. “As warm weather sets in, this will dry out, increasing the risk of dangerous and fast moving grass fires.

“Despite the wet weather, we have already seen more than 1000 grass fires across the state since July, and the risk will increase in the months ahead.”

Commissioner Rogers said the introduction of the new Australian Fire Danger Rating System will help people make informed decisions this bush fire season.

“Know your risk, and check the daily fire danger ratings. The new Fire Danger Rating System has four levels – Moderate, High, Extreme and Catastrophic – with clear actions for each level,” Rogers added. “Each rating gives an indication of the consequences of a fire if one was to start.”

Permits are required in areas where the Bush Fire Danger Period is in place, and landholders using fire must notify the RFS, such as online at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/notify.