Hazard reduction at Camp Breakaway at San Remo
Published: 28th October 2014
Fire & Rescue NSW (FRNSW), in conjunction with the NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS), will undertake hazard reduction operations at Camp Breakaway off Highview Ave, San Remo, on Wednesday, 29 October, pending favourable conditions.
FRNSW Newcastle and Central Coast Zone Commander, Acting Superintendent Mark McKay, said fire authorities were taking advantage of the weather conditions and carrying out the burn in preparation for the bushfire season.
"FRNSW and the NSW RFS are using combined resources and are working together to ensure this hazard reduction burn is 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."
The hazard reduction burn will cover 7.5ha and involve more than 56 firefighters, including eight FRNSW fire trucks and six NSW RFS fire trucks, as well as having a number of additional fire officers in attendance. Ignition is expected to start at 9.30am and the burn is expected to take several hours.
"There will be a lot of smoke due to the high volume of fuel," Acting Superintendent McKay 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.