The Rural Fire Service Cudgegong District will be undertaking another hazard reduction burn this weekend, autumn traditionally being when more than half of the annual NSW burning program is completed.
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Weather permitting, volunteer firefighters will be undertaking a 14.5ha hazard reduction at 7358 Sofala Road, Ilford - behind Ilford Public School - commencing about 10am on Saturday, May 18.
This will see the completion of works undertaken at this location over past years.
NSW RFS acting Commissioner Rob Rogers said, "forecast favourable conditions over the coming days have provided a welcome window of opportunity to complete some key burns".
"These burns are planned well in advance and will help reduce fuel loads and give firefighters a better chance of saving lives and protecting homes in the event of a bush fire," he said.
Since winter last year, more than 56,000 hectares have been treated across NSW, providing greater protection to more than 46,000 properties.
Due to an early start to the last bush fire season, only 39 per cent of scheduled burns having been completed so far, meaning the likelihood of a greater number of planned burns expected before next summer.
People in the vicinity of the hazard reduction should; close doors and windows; keep outdoor furniture under cover to prevent ember burns; retract pool covers to prevent damage; remove washing from clotheslines; and ensure pets have a protected area.
Asthmatics and people with respiratory or heart conditions should take appropriate precautions, follow treatment and management plans and keep their medication on hand.
As these burns may produce a large volume of smoke, local residents and motorists are reminded that they should only call Triple Zero (000) if they see a fire without a fire truck in attendance.
Download the free Fires Near Me app, which displays the location and status of current hazard reduction burns and bush fires across NSW, information that is also on the NSW RFS website.
A full list of scheduled hazard reduction burns, interactive map and further health advice is available at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/hr