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Notify us, say firefighters

Firefighters are again reminding local landholders of the need to notify authorities of any burn, after a series of ‘false alarms’ this week.

By yesterday morning, Mid Murray RFS brigades had already been called to respond to three fires this week.

On arrival, each was discovered to be a planned pile burn.

While the statutory Bush Fire Danger Period ended in the Mid Murray Zone in April, firefighters say there is always a risk involved with burns.

Inspector Doug Adamson said all members of the public must still abide by the law when conducting hazard reduction burns.

“Even though a fire permit is no longer a requirement, residents must still notify their neighbours and the local fire authority at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/notify 24 hours before burning,” he said.

“Check whether you need a bush fire reduction certificate before proceeding with a burn.

“Despite these milder conditions, there is always the potential for fires to threaten life, property and the environment, if not managed correctly.”

Insp Adamson said the local community should not become complacent to the danger of bush fires, even in the dead of winter.

To arrange a Bush Fire Hazard Reduction Certificate, or a free environmental assessment, contact the Mid Murray Fire Control Centre in Deniliquin on 5898 4100.