A new fire danger rating system is now in place across NSW, bringing the State’s system in line with every State and Territory in Australia.
Announced by the Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience, Steph Cooke, the upcoming bush fire season is to be the first season to incorporate the new Fire Danger Rating System.
“The existing six ratings are being replaced with four – Moderate, High, Extreme and Catastrophic – so that the community can better understand the risks and make potentially life-saving decisions,” Ms Cooke said.
“The new system of ratings was developed using community research and updated fire behaviour science, which until now, has remained unchanged for more than 50 years,” she said.
“Grass fires can move three times faster than bush fires and are our greatest threat this season, which is why all communities in regional and rural NSW should take the necessary steps to become familiar with the Fire Danger Rating System.”
Ms Cooke said the official Bush Fire Danger Period had already begun in 12 regions across NSW, including Clarence Valley, Coffs Coast, Far North Coast, Far South Coast, Hunter Valley, Liverpool Range, Lower North Coast, Mid Coast, New England, Northern Rivers, Northern Tablelands and Shoalhaven.
NSW Rural Fire Service Commissioner Rob Rogers said continuous, heavy rainfall across many parts of NSW had led to an increase in the growth of fuel loads.
“Over the coming weeks and months, we are particularly concerned about the likelihood of grass and crop fires as the State starts to dry out,” Commissioner Rogers said.
Fire and Rescue NSW Commissioner Paul Baxter urged residents to familiarise themselves with the new fire danger ratings system to “protect the irreplaceable”.
“Our main priority is to protect life,” Commissioner Baxter said.
“So please help us to help you and know what actions you will take if a bush fire does threaten your life and property this season.”
Further information on the new Fire Danger Rating System can be accessed at this PS News link.
