Tweed residents are being told to have a plan in place as the bushfire season officially begins, with more than a third of the state now entering the ‘Bushfire Danger Period’, Member for Tweed Geoff Provest said.
Mr Provest said the NSW Government was well prepared for the bush fire season, with the arrival of Large Air Tanker (LAT) ‘Boomer’.
“The NSW Government continues to ensure our devoted firefighters have the best support possible so they can continue to do what they do best – help protect our community,” Mr Provest said.
‘Boomer’ can dump more than 11,300 litres of water or fire retardant at a time, and will be used for direct attacks on both bush and grass fires, creating containment lines, and providing urban interface protection.
Mr Provest said it would be just one of many resources utilised this season to support Tweed firefighters that will be deployed to help protect the community.
“This impressive aircraft will support the efforts of our local firefighters on the ground to ultimately ensure that lives and property are kept as safe as possible this season,” Mr Provest said.
Mr Provest said while our dedicated firefighters will do everything they can to prepare and protect our community, its also important for residents to do what they can to prepare for the fire season and make sure they make or update their ‘Bush Fire Survival Plan’.
“People should also remember that embers can be blown a great distance ahead of a bush fire, travelling several streets and potentially igniting spot fires,” Mr Provest said.
“So whether you live near bushland or not, it’s absolutely essential you plan ahead – and prepare your property by doing things like clearing gutters of leaves, maintaining gardens, and checking your garden hoses can reach all corners of your property.”
Community members can learn more about bush fire preparation at one of 600 events across the state on Get Ready Weekend, on 22 and 23 September 2018.
Firefighters will be available at station open days as well as local events to provide advice on reducing the risk to your home.
Visit www.rfs.nsw.gov.au to find out what is happening in Tweed and for further information on making a ‘Bush Fire Survival Plan’, visit www.myfireplan.com.au.