The Hunters Bushfire Danger Period has been brought forward and will commence on Saturday 1st September 2018, one month ahead of the usual commencement date.
Guy Baddock from the Rural Fire Service said the early start to the Danger Period is a result of the current drought conditions and elevated fire risk being experienced across the state.
"There are a number of fires in the Lower Hunter at the moment and we are seeing some erratic fire behaviour which is certainly uncommon for this time of the year.
The Bushfire danger period will run through to Sunday 31st March 2019, where fire safety permits are required for open burning activities including pile burning and hazard reduction burning activities.
Mr Baddock said significant penalties apply to those who light fires in the open without a permit.
"If you don't have a permit, lighting a fire is essentially an illegal act and you can face a penalty, a walking infringement notice or an infringement penalty," Mr Baddock said.
Whilst it is not the first time the Bush Fire Danger has been brought forward due to weather conditions, the RFS is urging people to be cautious and prepared during the bushfire season.
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| Recent fires at Salt Ash which burnt through over 2000ha. Image: ABC. |
