THE NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) is urging everyone to remain vigilant, with higher temperatures forecast to return later this week.
The bushfire near Bulahdelah is still active, while the multiple fires that have been burning near Aerodrome Road and Willow Creek Road near Nabiac are contained, but are being closely watched.
The combined efforts of firefighters using water-bombing aircraft and earth-moving machinery has been praised for bringing those fires under control.
Smoke will be visible along the M1 as crews extinguish hot spots and strengthen containment lines to prevent any potential for fire escape.
Ongoing patrols will also be required over the coming days.
The threat of lightning strikes is also causing concern across the state, with the RFS releasing a map at the weekend, showing the extent of activity recorded over just four hours on 3 January.
The RFS reminds property owners in particular to take proactive steps to reduce the risk of fire. Namely:
– Ensure your property is well prepared
– Ensure you are adequately prepared if travelling, including monitoring local conditions and fire warnings
– Take appropriate measures to protect yourself and your loved ones
– Report any unattended or suspicious fires immediately by calling 000
Early reporting enables local brigades to respond quickly, helping to control, contain, and extinguish fires before they escalate and threaten lives or property.
Download the Hazards Near Me app and set Watch Zones for the areas you live in or are travelling through. For more information, go to www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/FNM
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