Hazard reduction burns planned
Several hazard reduction burns are planned for the Illawarra
Helensburgh Rural Fire Brigade has asked residents to prepare for a hazard reduction burn starting at about 2pm today, Sunday 26th, and continuing into the evening.
Crews will be working in Gills Gully on Lawrence Hargrave Drive, near Baines Place.
"Smoke is likely to impact surrounding streets and we ask motorists to reduce their speed and be cautious of moving vehicles and fire fighters working in the area," the brigade says. "Only call Triple Zero (000) if you see unattended fire, not just if you see or smell smoke."
The Gills Gully hazard reduction is one of several burns to take place across the wider region. The NSW RFS Illawarra Sutherland team said the aim is to reduce fuel loads ahead of the next fire season: "Planned burns like these play an important role in lowering the intensity and spread of bush fires."
Hazard reductions are planned for Cranberry St (Loftus) today, Sunday 26th; Purrungully Woodland (Horsley) on Monday 27th; and Wollongong Coal 1 (Russell Vale) on Tuesday 28th and Wednesday, 29 April.
The RFS warns smoke may be visible and settle in low-lying areas, particularly overnight and early in the mornings. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and take simple steps to minimise exposure to smoke where possible.
Last month Rural Fire Service group captain Craig Robertson told the Illawarra Flame multiple agencies will be involved in the autumn hazard reductions.
His message to residents was to prepare their properties: “Yes, we are going into winter but … it could be a dry winter.
"For the northern part of the Illawarra, it’s probably 2001 when we last had our big bushfire season up here. So we are aware that the growth and the fuels are there. It’s just probably a matter of time when that [next fire] happens.”
Residents are encouraged to make a bushfire risk management plan.
Follow the Helensburgh brigade and NSW RFS Illawarra Sutherland team on Facebook for updates.
