This week's bush fires have demonstrated the importance of early planning and preparation - so the NSW RFS encouraging residents to use this weekend to get ready.
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The Mudgee Brigade will be at the Farmers Markets, at Robertson Park from 8.30-11.30am on Saturday. And Lawson Brigade will open their doors at Tierney Lane, Eurunderee, from 10am to 12pm.
They'll be helping residents plan and prepare for the remainder of the fire season.
The local area is forecast to hit the mid to high 30s next week.
"This season has demonstrated the significant impact that bush fires can have on communities, with six people killed, more than 300 homes destroyed and many towns and villages threatened by fire," NSW RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said.
"It's a stark reminder not only about the dangers of fire, but also the importance of being prepared, and having a plan.
"Since this week's increased fire threat and Catastrophic fire danger conditions in some areas, we recognise people want to know more about getting ready."
More than 130 brigades will open on Saturday morning to chat with residents about their local risk, property preparation and making a plan.
Not all are able to take part though, as many are still involved in fighting fires either at home or elsewhere in NSW.
The NSW RFS recommends the following to get ready for the remainder of the bush fire season;
- Discuss what to do if a bush fire threatens your home;
- Prepare your home and get it ready for the bush fire season;
- Know the bush fire alert levels;
- Keep all the bush fire information numbers, websites and smartphone app handy.
To make a bush fire survival plan visit www.myfireplan.com.au
READ ALSO: RFS upgrades Fires Near Me NSW app
LLS urges landholders to prepare
With much of the state struggling with bush fires, Central Tablelands Local Land Services is reminding local landholders to ensure they are prepared for the challenging summer months ahead.
Together with the Department of Primary Industries, the LLS is responsible for the coordination of agriculture and animal services in emergencies such as bush fires and floods.
Central Tablelands emergency management coordinator, Emilee Johnstone, said that landholders should ensure they have a fire plan - including one to manage livestock and animals.
"Being prepared for a bush fire can help landholders protect themselves, their livestock and their property," she said.
"If landholders have a plan in place and a bush fire alert is issued, they will know what steps they need to take to give their livestock the best chance for survival."
Bush fire survival plan templates are available from the NSW Rural Fire Service and the NSW DPI website contains useful information to assist landholders prepare for their animals before an emergency.
In periods of very high fire danger rating, it is recommended that landholders implement measures to reduce impacts to their property and business. Including;
- moving livestock to a cleared paddock, irrigated pasture, or yards with a cleared or ploughed perimeter;
- transport horses off the property early or agist if they can't be kept safe during a bush fire;
- ensure livestock can be easily identifiable in the event fences are destroyed and stock escape.
During times of heightened bush fire risk Central Tablelands Local Land Services encourages landholders to;
- keep an eye on the weather;
- familiarise themselves with the RFS's fire danger ratings and bush fire alert levels;
- be aware of fire bans and restrictions;
- download useful apps, such MyFirePlan, Fires Near Me and Live Traffic NSW;
- listen to local radio for updates in their area.
LLS helps support landholders to plan and prepare for, respond to, and recover from biosecurity emergencies and natural disasters. For more information visit lls.nsw.gov.au/centraltablelands
