mmg.com.au

The NSW Rural Fire Service has warned residents in Conargo, Deniliquin, Jerilderie, Murray and Wakool Local Government Areas to be vigilant as fire danger in the area begins to escalate.

With fire activity on the rise and weather conditions becoming increasingly hot, dry and windy, Mid Murray zone manager Lindsay Lashbrook said people needed to be extremely careful when working in the open with machinery.

‘‘Many fires start as a result of human activities, including working with machinery, and the risk of more fires is high in these extremely dry conditions,’’ he said.

‘‘Large, dangerous fires can start from something as simple as a spark from grinding, welding, soldering or gas cutting, so we urge anyone conducting these activities to take every available precaution to avoid causing a fire.

‘‘Holiday-makers should ensure before lighting campfires that a Total Fire Ban is not in place and that all camp fires are completely extinguished before going to sleep or leaving the area.’’

The NSW RFS has already been called to a number of significant fires and smaller incidents across the State, which firefighters believe were sparked by machinery and lightning, Mr Lashbrook said.

‘‘Landholders should consider moving stock to paddocks with reduced grass and crop growth well before the heat of the day,’’ he said.

‘‘Extra vigilance and care can lower the risk of fires breaking out, and can prevent a great deal of damage.’’

For information on NSW fire conditions, visit www.rfs.nsw.gov.au or in Victoria visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au