NSW Rural Fire Service has announced that the Bush Fire Danger Period will begin on Thursday, August 1, along the Far South Coast, and has urged residents to start preparing now.
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October 1 is the official commencement of the bush fire season in much of the state, but the Far South Coast will start early due to continuing dry conditions.
NSW RFS superintendant, John Cullen, urged residents to complete a Bush Fire Survival Plan to ensure all members of the household know what to do if their home is threatened by fire.
"While it is important to continue hazard reduction, there are many ways of achieving the right result without burning," he said. "We are encouraging people to focus on the simple things like mowing and raking, and relocating flammable materials to safer locations.
"With the potential for strong winds, conditions are becoming more conducive to the spread of fire, and people need to be extremely careful when using fire.
"Never leave a fire unattended, and if a fire does escape, call 000 immediately."
An RFS spokesperson said any person wishing to light a fire during the Bush Fire Danger Period will require a permit.
"Please contact your local Fire Control Centre for details on how to obtain a fire permit," they said. "All permits will be automatically revoked on days of very high fire danger.
"To check the fire danger ratings, visit www.rfs.nsw.gov.au, or contact your local Fire Control Centre."
