Fire hazard reduction

Smoke seen in the Killcare area over the weekend was due to bush fire hazard reduction burning, according the NSW Rural Fire Service.

The reduction burning was planned between Wards Hills Rd and Fraser Rd, Killcare, on Saturday, September 30, and Sunday, October 1.

Volunteers from Gosford District had planned to conduct the burning as part of a fuel management program in preparation for summer months.

Hazard reduction burns are used to clear undergrowth and ground fuels in strategic areas of bushland surrounding dwellings and assets, according to the fire service.

"This work is vital in reducing the intensity of a bushfire should it occur in these areas," Gosford Rural Fire Service Inspector Mr Rolf Poole said.

"Effective hazard reduction can only be carried out within a narrow window of conducive weather, requiring the right temperature, wind conditions and the ground fuels to be sufficiently dry to burn effectively.

Mr Poole said: "Weather conditions are currently ideal for the controlled hazard reduction burning program. Fire fighters will be taking this opportunity to complete the strategic burn in Killcare to protect the surrounding community."

"There will be fire fighters on hand during the operations and patrolling afterwards to ensure the hazard reduction is completed in a safe manner."

Press release, September 28 Rolf Poole, NSW Rural Fire Brigade