THE Rural Fire Service (RFS) is warning residents of an increased risk of bush and grass fires across the Mid Coast and Port Macquarie local government areas (LGAs).

RFS Superintendent Ugo Tolone said hot and dry weather and increased fuel loads across the region are causing concern.

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“Current weather, considering light falls of rain, is generating hot and unsettled conditions into the weekend, with moderate to high fire danger ratings across the Hunter and Mid Coast,” Tolone said last week.

As a result, fire permits were suspended in the Mid Coast and Port Macquarie local government areas from midnight 4 January 2025.

The suspension is set to end at midnight 10 January 2025.

“Every landholder should be prepared for fire and have firefighting equipment on hand, such as a full knapsack, spray pumper or a handheld chemical fire extinguisher, each in good working order,” Tolone said.

Superintendent Tolone said grass fires travel much faster than bush fires because grass ignites so quickly.

“Mid Coast and Port Macquarie Hastings residents need to ensure they have an up-to-date bush fire survival plan and know what they and their family will do if a fire threatens their property.”

The RFS provides the following advice about protecting properties from grass fires:

– Put fire breaks in place around assets and standing crops as well as boundary fences.

– Check your farm equipment is in good order and is ready to deal with a fire.

– Be aware that slasher and mower blades can spark if they strike rocks or metal, causing dry grass to ignite.

– Register Static Water Supply sources on your property, such as dams, swimming pools and water tanks with the RFS, which will assist firefighters in a fire emergency.

“Every landholder has a legal responsibility to prevent fire spreading from their property and there can be serious consequences if people light fires and leave them unattended.”

For more information and resources, visit www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/plan-and-prepare.