Hazard reduction at Green Point Reserve, Valentine
Published: 27th November 2015
Fire & Rescue NSW (FRNSW), with assistance from the NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS), will undertake hazard reduction operations at the western end of Green Point Reserve, Valentine, today (Friday, 27 November).
FRNSW Newcastle Area Commander, Chief Superintendent Dave Felton, said FRNSW was taking advantage of the weather conditions to conduct the burn which had been rescheduled from earlier this year.
"FRNSW and the NSW RFS are using combined resources and are working together to ensure this hazard reduction burn is completed in a safe and efficient manner," he said.
“This hazard reduction will play a vital role in helping to reduce the intensity of bushfires in the area.”
Today’s hazard reduction burn will cover 15.5 ha and involve more than 60 firefighters, including 12 FRNSW fire trucks and four NSW RFS fire trucks. Ignition is expected to start at 9.30am, depending on conditions.
“There will be a lot of smoke due to the high volume of fuel and the broad area being treated,” Chief Superintendent Felton 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 areaVehicles 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.
Smoke may be visible for up to 24hrs after the burn
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