Go gas to avoid wildfire - Solid Fuel Fire Ban

A Solid Fuel Fire Ban is now in force throughout south coast State forests.

Forests NSW Operations manager, Marty Linehan, said the ban would stay in place until fuel moisture conditions change appreciably.

“The ban restricts the use of open fires because forest fuels are exceptionally dry, which increases the risk of campfires escaping into the forests,” he said.

The ban applies to all NSW State forests in the region, which includes pine plantations and native forests south of Nowra on the coast and ranges.

“Under the ban, all fires using solid fuels such as wood or charcoal are prohibited at all times,” Mr Linehan said.

“The pine plantations and native forests are a highly valuable resource and are particularly important to the regional economy.

“It is essential that every effort is made to reduce the chance of damage to the forests by wildfire.

“Banning solid fuel campfires in the forest areas, helps prevent the chance of a fire escaping and destroying these valuable forests, and also improves safety for forest visitors.

“We are aware that camp fires are part of the experience that many forest users enjoy, but right now the risk of an escape from such a fire is just too great.”

Mr Linehan said Forests NSW was asking campers who may be coming into the forests during the summer to bring gas appliances.

“Gas appliances are not affected by the Solid Fuel Fire Ban, but care should still be taken when using them in the forests.”

Mr Linehan said the Solid Fuel Fire Ban in State forests applied every day throughout summer and not just on days of declared Total Fire Ban (TOBAN).

Failure to comply with Solid Fuel Fire Ban restrictions carries a maximum penalty of $2200.

For further information about the fire bans, contact Forests NSW Monaro Regional office on (02) 6458 3177 or the Southern Regional office on 1300 880 548.