Hazard reduction at John Hunter
Published: 8th August 2014
Fire & Rescue NSW (FRNSW), in conjunction with the NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS), will undertake hazard reduction operations at John Hunter Hospital, New Lambton, on Sunday, 10 August, pending favourable conditions.
FRNSW Newcastle and Lower Hunter Commander, Superintendent Brett Davies, said fire authorities were continuing to take advantage of the weather conditions and conduct burns in preparation for the bushfire season.
"FRNSW and the NSW RFS are using combined resources and are working together to ensure these hazard reduction burns are completed in a fast, safe and efficient manner," he said.
“This hazard reduction is a priority for the state’s authorities due to the high fuel load in the area making it a bushfire risk.”
Sunday’s hazard reduction burn will cover 16ha off Lookout Rd and involve eight FRNSW and two NSW RFS fire trucks, as well as having a number of additional fire officers in attendance. Ignition is expected to start at 10am and the burn is expected to take all day.
“There will be a lot of smoke due to the high volume of fuel,” Superintendent Davies said.
“Residents in these areas should not be alarmed and should only call Triple Zero (000) in the event of an emergency.”
Residents in the affected areas are advised to take the following precautions:
• Keep doors and windows closed to prevent smoke entering homes
• Keep outdoor furniture under cover to prevent ember burns
• Retract pool covers to prevent ember damage
• Remove washing from clotheslines
• Ensure pets have a protected area
• Vehicles must slow down, keep windows up, turn headlights on
• Sightseers must keep away from burns for their own safety
• If you have asthma or a lung condition, reduce outdoor activities if smoke levels are high and if shortness of breath or coughing develops, take your reliever medicine or seek medical advice.
A full list of hazard reductions is available on the RFS website – www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/hr