THE BUSHFIRE danger period in the Macleay has been brought forward a month - and officially began on Thursday - due to historic dry conditions on the Mid North Coast.
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NSW Rural Fire Service Lower North Coast Superintendent Lachlann Ison told the Argus the Macleay had received only 32 per cent of its average year to date rainfall, and it had contributed to dangerous bushfire conditions.
"There has only been 220ml of rain and we usually have on average 658ml by this time of the year," Supt Ison said.
"Port Macquarie and Taree have experienced similar dry conditions and that's why the Mid North Coast have decided to bring the bushfire danger period forward a month - it usually begins on September 1."
Supt Ison believes the region could be facing a dangerous bushfire season and stressed the importance of creating a plan in case of an emergency.
"The best thing to do in case of a fire is to be prepared and have a bushfire survival plan," he said.
"Sit down with your family and create a plan of what you will do, where you will go and all the steps you will take to ensure survival in the event of a fire near your property."
As of now, residents will require a permit before starting an open fire.
"Anyone who wants to light a fire will need to receive a permit from a member of their local brigade," Supt Ison said.
"We will inspect the burning area and either recommend changes or approve the lighting of a fire."
Supt Ison encourages locals to take care of their properties throughout the warmer months and prepare for potential dangers.
"Hopefully larger properties have taken advantage of the cooler months and done some back burning and slashing," he said.
"But smaller properties must also prepare by maintaining their lawn mowing, cleaning gutters and doing general outside housekeeping."
The bushfire danger period will end on March 31.
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