The RFS responded quickly to a header fire last week. Photo: RFS MIA District Facebook.
The Rural Fire Service is warning residents of an increased risk of grass fires across the MIA District, as scorching temperatures start the week.
The local government areas of Carrathool, Griffith, Hay, Leeton, the northern parts of Murrumbidgee and Narrandera are all included in the district.
RFS Superintendent Scott Connor said the hot and dry weather in the area was curing grass (going from green to brown) to such a high level that it presented a serious fire threat.
“Under hot and windy conditions, grass fires can spread quickly and threaten lives, property, crops and stock,” Superintendent Connor said.
“Current weather systems are generating hot and unsettled conditions on Tuesday 25th and Wednesday 26th November, with a fire behaviour index (FBI) expected to be above 50 and a fire danger rating (FDR) of extreme.”
FDR’s indicate potential consequences of a fire, if one was to start. The higher the fire danger rating, the more dangerous the conditions.
During days of extreme fire danger, it is important to take action to protect your life and property through the following steps:
- Recognise these are dangerous fire conditions.
- Check your bush fire plan and ensure that your property is ready.
- If a fire starts, take immediate action.
- If you and your property are not prepared to the highest level, go to a safer location well before the fire impacts.
- Reconsider travel through bushfire risk areas.
“I urge MIA District landholders to be aware of this threat and of the risks associated with using machinery and harvesting during these conditions,” Superintendent Connor said.
“Every landholder should be prepared for fire and have firefighting equipment on hand, such as a full knapsack, spray pumper or a handheld chemical fire extinguisher, each in good working order.
“MIA District residents need to ensure they have an up-to-date bushfire survival plan and know what they and their family will do if a fire threatens their property.”
The RFS provides the following advice about protecting properties from grass fires:
- Put fire breaks in place around assets and standing crops as well as boundary fences.
- Check your farm equipment is in good order and is ready to deal with a fire.
- Be aware that slasher and mower blades can spark if they strike rocks or metal, causing dry grass to ignite.
- Register Static Water Supply sources on your property, such as dams, swimming pools and water tanks, with the RFS, which will assist firefighters in a fire emergency.
For more information and resources, visit the RFS Plan and Prepare website.
The warning has been issued after multiple RFS crews from the MIA District along with three brigades from the Riverina Zone responded quickly to a header fire at Landervale (just north of Narrandera) on Friday.
“Thanks to proactive land management by the property managers, including established fire breaks and the rapid use of heavy plant, crews were able to help contain the fire swiftly,” an RFS spokesperson said.
“The incident was also supported by aircraft. With 27 hectares burnt the fire has now been contained. We extend our gratitude to all involved for their tireless service and professionalism.”
Twenty volunteers helped put out the fires from the following brigades: Landervale, Grong Grong, Midgeon, Moombooldool, Kamarah, Colinroobie, Cowabbie, Beckom and Ardlethan.
