Residents asked to prepare for fire

The NSW Rural Fire Service has urged Peninsula residents and holiday makers to prepare for the bush fire danger season, which officially began on October 1.

Community safety officer Mr Rolf Poole said the fire service was encouraging property owners in and around the Peninsula to be prepared, particularly in suburbs close to bush land such as Patonga, Pearl Beach, Killcare, Pretty Beach, Woy Woy Bay and surrounding areas.

"Commencement of the Bush Fire Danger Period does not prohibit landholders from burning. In fact, we continue to encourage landowners and managers to prepare their properties, which may include controlled hazard reduction burning.

"It does mean however, that permits will be required for lighting fires.

"Fire permits are free and can be obtained from your local fire station or fire control centre.

Mr Poole said fire danger ratings were measured daily and displayed on roadside fire danger signs and on the internet at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au.

"Rural Fire Service fire fighters will continue to assist land management agencies by conducting hazard reduction burns during the bush fire danger period as weather conditions permit," Mr Poole said.

"The burns are coordinated as part of the district's fuel management plan and will greatly assist to protect the community.

"Local Resident should also be using this time to prepare and maintain their properties.

"As temperatures get warmer we also ask people to remain vigilant.

"Those that choose to holiday in the area should be aware of the current fire restrictions and fire danger rating."

Member for Gosford Ms Marie Andrews said local fire fighters were anticipating a "tougher" bush fire season this year.

"Last year, we were fortunate to experience a fairly mild fire season due to a La Nina weather event which brought lower temperatures and higher rainfall," Ms Andrews said.

"Those favourable conditions are not expected to be repeated this year and that means a strong likelihood of increased fire activity.

"Our fire fighters are ready for the fire season and it's crucial that householders and the community are also prepared.

"By taking action now, residents can reduce the chance of injury and increase the likelihood of saving their homes.

"Now is the time for people to clear items that could fuel a fire like leaf litter from around their homes and ensure they have a fire plan so everyone knows what to do in the event of a fire."

Press release, 30 Sep 2008 Rolf Poole, NSW Rural Fire Service Press release, 2 Oct 2008 Marie Andrews, Member for Gosford