Superintendent Kam Baker said travellers should check weather conditions before setting off on their trip and know the Fire Danger Rating for areas they plan to visit.

“Anyone planning to light a cooking fire should be extra careful at this time of year, as a small fire can quickly escalate into a major incident in hot and windy conditions,” Superintendent Baker said.

“Make sure you always extinguish your fire and turn off fuel lanterns and stoves before you leave or go to bed - heavy fines may apply if campfires or other open flames are left unattended.

“Campers should also check if a Total Fire Ban has been declared and, on days of Severe, Extreme or Catastrophic fire danger, consider whether trips to fire-prone areas should be postponed.”

The NSW RFS reminds the public that no open fires are allowed during a Total Fire Ban, even with a fire permit.

The NSW RFS issues the following advice for campers:

›    Follow the regulations for use of camp fires and barbeques during the Bush Fire Danger Period and on days of Total Fire Ban. You may not use a portable barbeque outside a caravan during a Total Fire Ban, however you may use the stove inside the caravan provided due care is taken

›    Take care with gas cylinders. Be sure they are vented away from a caravan

›    Know the Fire Danger Rating for your area and understand the risk near where you’re staying. Fire Danger Ratings are posted at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

›    Have a plan for what you will do in the event of a bush fire

›    When staying in a caravan park, find out if a safe refuge has been designated in case of bush fire and use it if fire threatens. If no refuge area has been designated, decide ahead of time where you will shelter from fire. Sheltering in brick toilet blocks, stone picnic shelters or behind concrete walls is safer than being inside your caravan during a bush fire

›    Never drop or discard lit cigarettes or matches.