From September, 1  2014 any person wishing to light a fire in rural areas will require a permit in the following local government areas:

• Muswellbrook

• Singleton

These areas include the towns of Branxton, Denman, Muswellbrook and Singleton which require a fire permit all year round from their respective Fire and Rescue station.

“Anybody wishing to light a fire on their property during the Bush Fire Danger Period will require a permit from their local Rural Fire brigade permit issuing officer or their Fire and Rescue station. 

Their contact details can be obtained from the Fire Control Centre on 6574 5186. 

This number is answered 24 hours a day.

“Despite recent rain, seasonal conditions are becoming more conducive to the spread of fire, people need to be extremely careful when using fire,” Hunter Valley team manager, Superintendent Paul Jones, said.

“However, even with a permit you need to check the fire danger rating and whether a Total Fire Ban is in place before lighting any fires.”

Supt Jones is also encouraging residents to have a Bush Fire Survival Plan.

These can be downloaded from www.rfs.nsw.gov.au, so all members of the household know what to do on days of increased fire danger and if their home is threatened by fire. 

Residents should also continue with their hazard reduction activities.

“We have all seen the devastation that bush fires can bring to a community, so I strongly urge people to contact their local rural fire brigade and use their expertise to assist in carrying out safe hazard reductions,” Supt Jones said.

“Residents also need to ask whether they need a Bush Fire Hazard Reduction Certificate.

“Never leave a fire unattended and if a fire does escape, it is essential to call Triple Zero (000) immediately so that emergency services can attend and minimise the damage.”