A total fire ban has been declared for most of NSW for today, Friday, January 18 due to the forecast hot, dry and windy conditions expected.
The Total Fire Ban will commence at midnight tonight and remain in place until midnight tonight.
The Bureau of Meteorology has advised the greater western Sydney region as having a severe fire danger rating.
The NSW Rural Fire Service advises that if fires break out in extreme conditions:
• They can be uncontrollable, unpredictable and fast moving with flames in the tree tops,
and higher than roof tops.
• Thousands of embers may be blown around and into homes causing other fires to start
and spread quickly up to 6km ahead of the main fire.
People should report any unattended fires to Triple Zero.
On a day of Total Fire Ban, there is a ban on any fires out in the open.
A gas or electric barbeque is allowed, but only if:
• It is on a residential property within 20 metres of the house or dwelling
• It is in a picnic area and approved by Council, National Parks or State Forest
• It is under the direct control of a responsible adult
• The ground around the barbecue is cleared for 2 metres of all material that can burn
• You have an immediate and continuous supply of water available.
For full details on Total Fire Ban rules & map of current Total Fire Bans: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au