The NSW Rural Fire Service has declared a Total Fire Ban for the Inverell, Glen Innes and Tenterfield Local Government Areas (LGA) due to an Extreme Fire Danger Conditions — meaning fire conditions are highly dangerous and any fire could spread rapidly.
What you cannot do
Under a Total Fire Ban you MUST NOT:
• Light, maintain or use any fire in the open air (this includes campfires, bonfires or open burn-offs)
• Carry out any activity that may start a fire — like welding, grinding, slashers, harvesters or machinery likely to spark
• Use wood or charcoal barbecues / pizza ovens (solid fuel)
• Discard cigarettes, matches or other fire-starting material on the ground or out of vehicle windows
What you can do
Use gas or electric barbecues only if:
• A responsible adult is present at all times
• Clear of combustible materials within 2 metres
• You have water or extinguisher immediately available nearby
Fines & penalties
Breaching a Total Fire Ban is taken very seriously:
• On-the-spot fine: ~$2,200 for lighting a fire
• Court penalties: Up to $5,500 and/or 12 months’ jail for starting a fire
• Discarding a cigarette during ban: fines can double
• If a fire escapes and causes damage, fines and penalties are much higher — up to $132,000 and/or years in prison depending on circumstances
Important
Total Fire Bans are in place to protect lives, property, animals and our beautiful environment. Please obey the ban, check your Bush Fire Survival Plan, and stay informed via the NSW RFS website if conditions change.
Source: NSW Rural Fire Service Northern Tablelands District Facebook Page
