The NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) is suspending all fire permits issued in the MidCoast and Port Macquarie Hastings and Local Government Areas (LGA's) as of midnight, Saturday December 5, 2020.
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"Whilst we have seen some rain fall across the LGAs in the past month the Keech-Byram Drought Index (KBDI) is currently over 120. The KBDI provides a guide to fire managers of the flammability of organic material on and within the soil surface that can impact their ability to suppress bushfires," acting district manager Inspector Guy Duckworth said.
"The suspension of permits applies to residents in the Port Macquarie Hastings and Mid Coast LGAs and will be in place until weather conditions result in significant rainfall.
"Keeping the local community and visitors to our area safe from bush fire with the holiday period about to start is our priority.
"I urge all residents and visitors to take the threat of bush fire seriously and ensure they have a bush fire survival plan. I encourage visitors to our area to download the Fires Near Me app for smartphones which will assist in keeping them up to date with the fire conditions," Inspector Duckworth said.
All fires that are currently alight must be extinguished and no permits are to be activated after midnight Saturday.
For further information, contact the Mid Coast District Office on 1 300 643 262 or visit www.rfs.nsw.gov.au.