A total fire ban has been declared for Moree and other areas in the North West due to the extreme heat and windy conditions forecast for the region on Wednesday.
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The NSW Rural Fire Service has declared a total fire ban for the north western fire district, which includes Moree Plains, Narrabri, Walgett and Warrumbungle local government areas.
Moree is set for a top of 42 degrees on Wednesday, with winds northwest to northeasterly 15 to 25 km/h becoming light in the middle of the day then becoming northeast to southeasterly 15 to 20 km/h in the evening.
A total fire ban means no fires may be lit in the open and all fire permits are suspended.
Residents cannot light, maintain or use a fire in the open, or carry out any activity in the open that causes, or is likely to cause, a fire.
General purpose hot works (such as welding, grinding or gas cutting or any activity that produces a spark or flame) are not to be done in the open.
The NSW RFS strongly recommends residents reconsider activities such as such using a tractor or slashing, to help reduce the chance of a fire starting on your property.
NSW RFS encourages all residents to review their Bush Fire Survival Plan to know what to do if a fire starts near you.
For more information on what a Total Fire Ban means, check www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/toban
What to do before and during a heatwave
- Stay hydrated, drink two to three litres of water each day, even if you don't feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
- Dress light – Lighter clothing helps your body stay cool. Light-coloured clothing reflects heat and sunlight.
- Check on family, friends, neighbours – Keep a close eye on those most at risk, like the sick, the elderly and the young. Do this at an arranged time at least twice a day. If you or those close to you are suffering heat stress, call for help immediately. Symptoms of heat stress include extremely heavy sweating, headache and vomiting, confusion, swollen tongue.
- Stay out of the sun – Take shelter. If you need to be out in the sun, wear a shirt, hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. Sunburn will affect your body's ability to cope with the heat.
- Get your home ready – Draw your curtains, blinds and awnings at the start of the day to keep as much sun out of your home as possible.
- Seek air conditioning – If you don't have air conditioning at home, spend the day somewhere that does, like a library, cinema or shopping centre. If you do have an air conditioner at home, make sure it has been serviced. Fans will also help you stay cool.
- Look after your pets – Make sure your pets have plenty of shade and enough cool water to last the entire day. Putting ice cubes in their bowl will help keep their water cool for longer. Check on them regularly.
- Don’t leave children or pets in parked cars ever!
