IT’S time for your weekly emergency services update.

RFS Training

This week, local brigade members from the Williamtown/ Salt Ash Rural Fire Brigade carried out fuel load assessments around the Bobs Farm area.

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During this time, they explored fire trails and examined the vegetation growth throughout the area.

Traffic Blitz Lemon Tree Passage

Port Stephens Hunter Police continued their traffic blitz on the peninsula this week with a stationary RBT being conducted on Lemon Tree Road at Tanilba Bay on 13 February.

Around 100 drivers were tested and the district is happy to report none returned a positive reading.

Lock it or Lose It

Port Stephens-Hunter Police District warn all tradies and people that leave their tools and equipment exposed, such as in the back of utes or at work sites – please secure your equipment.

The Police District say there have been many ‘preventable’ thefts from similar circumstances locally.

Outdoor Lights

With newer compact fluorescent lamps lasting a long time compared to the older bulbs, dead insects will build up and can cause these bulbs to overheat.

Keep it in mind when you do your fire season preparation and regular maintenance around the home.

Slowing for Flashing Lights

NSW Road Safety are reminding all drivers on the road that if you see stopped emergency vehicles, tow trucks or breakdown assistance vehicles displaying flashing lights, remember to slow down to 40km/h in speed zones of 80km/h or less.

In speed zones of 90km/h or more, slow down safely and move over to give them space.

Scam Alert

The ATO is receiving reports of SMS and email scams involving cryptocurrency.

Scammers pretending to be from the ATO are telling people they are suspected of being involved in cryptocurrency tax evasion.

They are then asking them to ‘connect their wallet’ and provide detailed information via a link.

If you receive an SMS or email like this, don’t click on the link.

It will take you to a fake myGov login page, designed to steal your personal information.

If you’re ever unsure whether it’s the real ATO, don’t reply.

Phone 1800 008 540 to check.

By Tara CAMPBELL