Move FM Regional news

The NSW Rural Fire Service is calling on all Bathurst, Blue Mountains, Lithgow and Oberon locals to join with NSW RFS volunteer firefighters and prepare for the coming bush fire season on Get Ready Weekend.

Residents can get involved in fun family events including kids activities, firefighting displays, opportunities to get aboard a fire truck, and see some of their specialist equipment. Importantly they can also get some information and advice on preparing their properties for the bush fire season.

NSW RFS Superintendent Greg Sim said all residents in the Bathurst, Blue Mountains Lithgow and Oberon areas need to be prepared for the bush fire season.

“It has already been a busy start to the fire season with more than 2,000 bush and grass fires across NSW during August,” Superintendent Sim said.

“With all of NSW in drought and a forecast of ongoing warm and dry conditions, there is the potential for a long and protracted bush fire season.  NSW RFS members have been busy preparing by undertaking hazard reduction burns, maintaining firefighting equipment and undergoing training.”

“Get Ready Weekend is a chance for all residents to do their bit to prepare and protect their family and property in the event of a fire,” added the NSW RFS chief.

Superintendent Sim said thirteen events will be held in the Bathurst, Lithgow and Oberon areas in coming weeks, including firefighting displays, opportunities to get on board a fire truck, seeing specialist firefighting equipment up close and having your picture taken with a firefighter.

“Volunteer firefighters will be available to talk to about the simple things you can do to reduce your bush fire risk,” Superintendent Sim said.

“Preparing for bush fires is easier than people may think. It could be as simple as talking to your family about what you would do if a bush fire was to start near them.”

“Get Ready Weekend on 22 and 23 September is the ideal opportunity to take that action,” he said.