The NSW Rural Fire Service is warning the recent summer heatwaves have continued to dry out the landscape, particularly in grassland areas.

“The previous wet winter and now very warm summer has meant the threat of grass fires across the State has continued to increase,” Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said. “In the last month alone, NSW RFS volunteers have attended 600 grass fires across the state. Some of these have resulted in the loss of stock, fencing, valuable equipment, buildings and homes.”

The risk now is that with the grass now drying out, the landscape is now even more susceptible to fire.

With record breaking temperatures and significantly below average rainfall throughout January, Commissioner Fitzsimmons said there is a more urgent need to prepare.

“Farmers can help protect their properties by establishing firebreaks around paddocks, homes and other valuable assets like sheds and equipment,” he said. “Maintaining machinery and knowing the fire danger ratings before using equipment is also important.

“The taller and drier the grass, the quicker the fire will move and the more intensely it will burn. A grass fire can cut roads and threaten property with very little warning and can move up to three times faster than a bush fire.”

Motorists should also avoid driving through or stopping in long grass, even if it’s just for a few minutes, as the heat from a car’s exhaust can be enough to start a fire.

“It is important that everyone understands the risks of grass fires, whether you’re on the land, in town or just travelling through.”