[rfs-bluemountains-information]

Good Afternoon All, and happy holidays etc.

For those of you who enjoy these kinds of things, I've taken a moment to write a brief holiday message to everyone. If you'd like to have a read, visit
https://t.co/9TfL9thK (for Facebook people) or http://t.co/yBHEaBzW (for normal webpage).

Warning: The webpage version does have a photo mug shot on it.

For those of you who don't enjoy them, forget this email ever existed.

The NSW Rural Fire Service Blue Mountains District office will be closed on the public holidays but, as always, your volunteer firefighters will continue to be available all day, every day, throughout the festive season.

Stay safe, keep calm,

For all emergencies, call 000!

Eric.

Inspector Eric Berry
Community Safety Officer
NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE
Blue Mountains District
Cnr Valley and Bathurst Roads
Katoomba NSW 2780

T: 02 4784 7444
F: 02 4784 7461

www.rfs.nsw.gov.au
www.bluemountains.rfs.nsw.gov.au

%chive_on%

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Hot Weather Advice and Fundraising Thanks

Hi Everyone,

 

WEATHER

Hot weather will return this weekend to the Blue Mountains and Greater Sydney Area, along with hot and gusty winds. Temps in the upper Mountains will be up towards +29c and as much as +37c in the lower Mountains. There is also a strong chance of thunderstorms on Sunday.

 

If you are going to be enjoying the outdoors, especially on Saturday, be sure to use plenty of sunblock and to keep yourself hydrated!

 

For those wanting some more details, visit http://www.weatherzone.com.au/news/sydney-to-swelter-this-weekend/19412

 

THANKS

Also, we’d like to publically thank the students of our own Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School for organising and hosting a fundraising dinner for the RFS Blue Mountains last night (Thursday). Over $1,500 was raised for our Brigades on the night. Also thank-you to several of our email list subscribers who came up and said hello! It’s always great to meet our “customers” in person.

 

If you’d like to see some photos of the event, you can visit http://tinyurl.com/6n26ul8.

 

Regards to all, and have a safe weekend!

 

Eric.

 

Inspector Eric Berry

Community Safety Officer

NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE                         

Blue Mountains District

Cnr Valley and Bathurst Roads

Katoomba NSW 2780

 

T: 02 4784 7444

M: 0414 195 615

F: 02 4784 7461

 

www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

www.bluemountains.rfs.nsw.gov.au

 

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Do you know this 000 caller?

NSW Police and Fire Investigators are appealing for the person who called Triple Zero about last month’s fire in Katoomba to come forward.

 

Detectives investigating the deliberately-lit bushfire in the Blue Mountains last month have released part of a call made to Triple Zero (000) in the hope of identifying a person who could have information important to the investigation.

 

We encourage the person to contact CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000.

 

To listen to the call visit http://youtu.be/byLmjGQI4Qo

 

 

 

Inspector Eric Berry

Community Safety Officer

NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE                         

Blue Mountains District

Cnr Valley and Bathurst Roads

Katoomba NSW 2780

 

T: 02 4784 7444

M: 0414 195 615

F: 02 4784 7461

 

www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

www.bluemountains.rfs.nsw.gov.au

 

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Fire Update: Wentworth Falls 18:30 15/11/11 - Contained

The fire at Darwin's Walk, Wentworth Falls, has been contained. It is currently burning an area of approximately 3 hectares (based on provisional estimates).

There are currently 18 fire trucks and support vehicles in attendance. Firefighters will shortly commence mopping up and blacking out the fire, and will be in attendance for some time.

[rfs-bluemountains-information] FW: Fire Update - Darwin's Walk Wentworth Falls

 

From: Helen Belshaw
Sent: Tuesday, November 15, 2011 6:12 PM
To: 'rfs-bluemountains-information@googlegroups.com'
Subject: Fire Update - Darwin’s Walk Wentworth Falls

 

Hi All,

 

Units from RFS and FRNSW are currently attending a fire at Darwin’s Walk (off Dalrymple Ave and Parke St) Wentworth Falls.  At present there are no properties directly under threat.  Residents in the area are advised to “Watch and Act” and be prepared to activate their Bush Fire Survival plan.

 

 

Kind Regards,

 

Helen Belshaw

Fire Mitigation Officer

NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE                                        

Blue Mountains

 

T: 02 4784 7444

M: 0448 879 675

F: 02 4784 7460

 

www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

 

RFS Disclaimer:
This email message is intended only for the addressee(s) and contains information which may be confidential. If you are not the intended recipient, please notify the sender and delete this email and any copies or links to this email completely and immediately from your system. Views expressed in this message are those of the individual sender, and are not necessarily the views of the NSW Rural Fire Service.

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Bushfire Advice - Lawson 13:30 14/11/11

Crews from NSW Rural Fire Service and Fire & Rescue NSW are currently attending a small bushfire in Lawson, near Wilson Street.

 

A Watch – And – Act advice is in effect for residents in Wilson Street, Lawson.

 

No further information is available at this time.

 

Inspector Eric Berry

Community Safety Officer

NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE                         

Blue Mountains District

Cnr Valley and Bathurst Roads

Katoomba NSW 2780

 

T: 02 4784 7444

M: 0414 195 615

F: 02 4784 7461

 

www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

www.bluemountains.rfs.nsw.gov.au

 

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Bushfire Advice - Medlow Bath 14:33hrs 10/11/11

Units from NSW Rural Fire Service and Fire & Rescue NSW are attending a small bushfire near the old airfield at Medlow Bath.

 

The fire is approximately 1 hectare in size and is expected to be contained shortly.

 

 

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Widespread Severe Thunderstorm Warning 08/11/11

The Weather Bureau has issued a warning for severe thunderstorms over a large area of New South Wales.

The warning is for people in the Metropolitan, Illawarra, Central Tablelands, Southern Tablelands, Central West Slopes and Plains, South West Slopes, Australian Capital Territory and parts of the South Coast, North West Slopes and Plains, Riverina, Lower Western, Upper Western and Snowy Mountains Forecast Districts.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce large hailstones and damaging winds in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations which may be affected include Wollongong, Nowra, Batemans Bay, Orange, Canberra, Goulburn, Dubbo, Tibooburra and Bourke.

Thunder storms are currently affecting southern Sydney and the Illawarra areas, as well as the NSW South Coast. Another band of storms is currently stretching from Crookwell to Bourke.

The storms are spreading to the east and will impact the Blue Mountains area by around 6pm or 7pm, then moving toward the Greater Sydney area.

The State Emergency Service advises that people should:
* Move your car under cover or away from trees.
* Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony.
* Keep clear of fallen power lines.
* Unplug computers and appliances.
* Avoid using the phone during the storm.
* Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well.
* For emergency help in floods and storms, ring the SES [NSW and ACT] on 132
500.

For all life-threatening emergencies call 000 immediately!

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Hazard Reduction burn at Medlow Bath today

FRNSW and BMCC are undertaking a small hazard reduction burn in Medlow Park today.

As the prescribed burn will generate smoke, hot embers and heat, it is important that you consider the following:
... • Keep doors and windows closed to prevent smoke entering homes
• Keep outdoor furniture under cover to prevent ember burns
• Retract pool covers to prevent ember damage
• Remove washing from clotheslines
• Ensure pets have a protected area
• If you are driving a vehicle, slow down, keep windows up and turn headlights on
• If you have asthma or a lung condition, reduce outdoor activities. If smoke levels are high and if shortness of breath or coughing develops, take your reliever medicine or seek medical advice

Avoid approaching this area for some time after the completion of the hazard reduction as there may be falling limbs and trees as well as hot ash.

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Fundraising Dinner for BM RFS 17 Nov 2011

Good Afternoon Everyone,

The students at the Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School are holding a fundraiser as part of their event management course and have selected the NSW Rural Fire Service's Blue Mountains District as the beneficiary for this year!

Please find following some information about the event.

TICKET PRICE : $55.00 pp
6:30 PM
17th NOVEMBER
Chambers Restaurant, 1 Chambers Rd, Leura. (located at Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School)

Come and join us at the Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School for a fundraiser that is for a fantastic cause! Enjoy a 3 Course Dinner with Matching Wines to help raise money for the local Rural Fire Service. There will be entertainment and activities for you to participate in and a chance to give back to the community!!

How to get tickets: you can contact us anytime on 0411 792 913 (Hayley Lauren Smith [BMIHMS])

[rfs-bluemountains-information]

Please see attached

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Bushfire Update 0600 25.10.2011

please see the attached Email Update

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Hazard Reduction Notification

 

Hazard Reduction Notification

 

Please be advised that the NSW Rural Fire Service, Blue Mountains District are intending to undertake hazard reduction burning, weather permitting, at the following location this week:

 

 

Date:                         22^nd Saturday 2011

 

Name of HR:            Berridale

Location:                  174 Shipley Rd

                                    Shipley

 

Size:                           1 hectares

 

The hazard reduction on Saturday the 22^nd October 2011 will commence at approximately 0930hrs.

 

There may be large amounts of smoke in the vicinity.

 

For further information please contact the NSW Rural Fire Service District Office, Katoomba on 4784 7444.

 

Regards,

 

 

 

 

 

David Hoadley

A/ District Manager        

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Information on fire activity in the Blue Mountains area

Blue Mountains Bush Fire Management Committee

 

Hazard Reduction Notification

 

Please be advised that on behalf of the Blue Mountains Bush Fire Management Committee (BMBFMC) crews from the NSW Rural Fire Service, Blue Mountains District (RFS) are intending to undertake Hazard Reduction (HR) burning at the following locations tonight:

 

 

Date              Wednesday 21 September 2011

Name of HR              Nioka Place

Location                Sandham Rd, BELL

Size                    19 hectares

Lead Agency             RFS

 

 

Date              Wednesday 21 September 2011

Name of HR              Porters Pass

Location                Centennial Glen Reserve, BLACKHEATH

Size                    1 hectares

Lead Agency             RFS

 

Further information regarding these activities can be found at

 

http://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/dsp_content.cfm?CAT_ID=689

 

Information on Olympian Fire

 

Issued on 21 September 2011 at 11.00am

Situation

A fire has been burning near the backs of homes and down the escarpment at Olympian

Parade, Leura. The fire is burning in low-moderate fire danger and is being controlled by crews

from NSW Rural Fire Service (NSWRFS), Fire & Rescue NSW (FRNSW) and National Parks

and Wildlife Service (NPWS). They will be assisted by aircraft for water bombing. A Remote

Area Firefighting Team (RAFT) will be deployed to access burning pockets at the base of the

cliff.

For their own safety, people should not enter walking trails in the area which have been closed

These fires are being treated as suspicious and the public are requested to contact Crime

Stoppers 1800 333 000 if they have noted any suspicious activity in the last 48 hours.

Specialist Fire Investigation Units are currently on scene.

Advice

• An ‘Advice’ alert level is current for this fire.

• Continue to monitor the situation and follow your Bush Fire Survival Plan.

• If you do not have a plan, decide what you will do if the situation changes.

• Action may be required. Leaving early is the safest option.

Information

• If your life is at risk call triple zero (000) immediately.

• Continue to stay up to date with the bush fire situation by checking www.rfs.nsw.gov.au,

listening to your local radio station or by calling the NSW Bush Fire Information Line on

1800 NSW RFS (1800 679 737)

• For information on road conditions or closures, please call the NSW RTA on 131 700 or

check www.rta.nsw.gov.au. Remember roads may be closed without warning.

• For information on closures of National Parks associated with this fire, please visit

www.npws.nsw.gov.au or www.bmcc.nsw.gov.au.

.

Authorised by Incident Controller David Hoadley, Blue Mountains Fire Control Centre.Issued

by the Incident Management Team on behalf of the Commissioner of the NSW Rural Fire

Service.

 

Inspector Eric Berry

Community Safety Officer

NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE                         

Blue Mountains District

Cnr Valley and Bathurst Roads

Katoomba NSW 2780

 

T: 02 4784 7444

M: 0414 195 615

F: 02 4784 7461

 

www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

www.bluemountains.rfs.nsw.gov.au

 

[rfs-bluemountains-information] 10:00hrs Fire Update 20/09/2011 - Leura

Information on fire activity in the Olympian Parade, Leura area

Issued at 20 September 2011 at 10.00am

 

Situation

A bushfire is burning in the Olympian Parade, Leura area. The fire is currently 4 hectares in size and is out of control.

The fire is burning in high fire danger and is currently less than 2 hours from properties.

Under these conditions, fires can be difficult to control. Embers may be blown ahead of the fire, creating spot fires. These spot fires may threaten your home earlier than the predicted fire front.

Increasing strong winds are creating small areas of increased fire intensity. Fire may begin to spread rapidly and has the potential to impact on properties.

Crews from NSW RFS, FRNSW and NPWS are currently deployed for property protection should it be required. Aircraft are also being utilised for water bombing.

Advice

• A ‘Watch and Act’ advice is current for this fire. There is a heightened level of threat.
• Well prepared and actively defended houses can offer safety during a fire.
• Conditions are changing and you need to start taking action now to protect you and your family and follow your Bushfire Survival Plan

Information

• If your life is at risk call triple zero (000) immediately.
• Updates on this fire are also available at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au or by calling call 1800 NSW RFS (1800 679 737)
• For information on road conditions or closures, please call the NSW RTA on 131 700 or check www.rta.nsw.gov.au. Remember roads may be closed without warning.
• For information on closures of National Parks associated with this fire, please visit www.npws.nsw.gov.au
• If you need to report a new fire or require urgent assistance, dial Triple Zero (000).

 

Authorised by Incident Controller Robert Vinzenz, Blue Mountains Fire Control Centre.

Issued by the Incident Management Team on behalf of the Commissioner of the NSW Rural Fire Service.

 

 

Inspector Eric Berry

Community Safety Officer

NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE                         

Blue Mountains District

Cnr Valley and Bathurst Roads

Katoomba NSW 2780

 

T: 02 4784 7444

M: 0414 195 615

F: 02 4784 7461

 

www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

www.bluemountains.rfs.nsw.gov.au

 

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Fire update: Olympian Parade, Leura

Good Morning Everyone,

Crews from NSW Rural Fire Service and Fire & Rescue NSW remain on-scene at the bushfire that started yesterday afternoon near Olympian Parade at Leura. There is currently no property under threat.

A "Watch and Act" advice is current for this fire.

Conditions may be changing. Continue to monitor the situation and follow your Bush Fire Survival Plan.

There are currently 12 fire trucks in and around Olympian Parade, prepared to provide property protection to local homes should the fire activity increase.

A helicopter reconnisance will be launching at approximately 07:00am this morning to overfly the fire and provide ground crews with a more detailed picture of what the fire is or may be doing.

The weather forecast for today includes very strong winds, which have the potential to increase fire activity. Naturally firefighters will remain on-scene and prepared should this happen.

Fire Behaviour:
• Variable based on local conditions
Fire Intensity:
• Fires can be controlled
• Spot fires can occur close to the main fire
Fire Impact:
• Loss of life unlikely and damage to property will be limited
• Well prepared and actively defended houses can offer safety during a fire

Under these conditions, fires can be difficult to control. Embers may be blown ahead of the fire, creating spot fires. These spot fires may threaten your home earlier than the predicted main fire front.

Other information
• If your life is at risk, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
• Continue to stay up to date with the bush fire situation by checking http://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au<http://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/>, listening to your local radio station or by calling the NSW RFS Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737.
• If you live in the area but are away from home, it may not be safe to return to your property.
The next update on this fire will be issued by 10:00am or if the situation changes.

Regards,
Eric

Inspector Eric Berry
Community Safety Officer
NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE
Blue Mountains District
Cnr Valley and Bathurst Roads
Katoomba NSW 2780

T: 02 4784 7444
M: 0414 195 615
F: 02 4784 7461

www.rfs.nsw.gov.au<http://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au>
www.bluemountains.rfs.nsw.gov.au<http://www.bluemountains.rfs.nsw.gov.au>

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Prescribed Burn Advice for 16 September 2011

Good Morning Everyone,

There will be two Hazard Reduction burns taking place that will be visible from the Blue Mountains during today.

The first is in the Wild Dog Mountains, to the south of Katoomba. Smoke will be clearly visible from Katoomba when looking between Mount Solitary and Narrow Neck. National Parks & NSW Rural Fire Service crews will be in attendance throughout the day. Map at http://tinyurl.com/3zcovbo to see where the Wild Dogs are in relation to you.

Another is in the Mulgoa area, down in the Cumberland Zone. http://tinyurl.com/6zeqvbh for a map of where Mulgoa is in relation to the rest of the Mountains.

There will also be additional burns taking place over the weekend and into next week, weather permitting. For further details, visit our website www.bluemountains.rfs.nsw.gov.au and select "Blue Mountains District News" from the left-side menu.

You can also keep up-to-date with the latest by following us on twitter (@ruralfirebm) or our facebook page (http://tinyurl.com/rfs-bm-facebook).

For any and all other enquiries, give us a call at the District Office on 02 4784 7444

Stay safe,

Eric.

Inspector Eric Berry
Community Safety Officer
NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE
Blue Mountains District
Cnr Valley and Bathurst Roads
Katoomba NSW 2780

T: 02 4784 7444
M: 0414 195 615
F: 02 4784 7461

www.rfs.nsw.gov.au
www.bluemountains.rfs.nsw.gov.au

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Prescribed Burn Advice for 6 September 2011 - Megalong Valley

We wish to advise that a fuel management burn (also called a prescribed burn or hazard reduction) is proposed for the Megalong Valley area this Tuesday. This will consist of prescribed burning of vegetation to reduce the bush fire fuel and assist in reducing the intensity and adverse impact of bush fires in extreme weather conditions.

The prescribed burning will be undertaken by the NSW Rural Fire Service subject to weather conditions. The burn is scheduled for the following day at the following location:

Date            Tuesday 6^th September 2011             

Location        Megalong Valley Reserve, Megalong Valley Rd, Megalong Valley   

 

As the prescribed burn will generate smoke, hot embers and heat, it is important that you consider the following: 

• Keep doors and windows closed to prevent smoke entering homes
• Keep outdoor furniture under cover to prevent ember burns
• Retract pool covers to prevent ember damage
• Remove washing from clotheslines
• Ensure pets have a protected area
• If you are driving a vehicle, slow down, keep windows up and turn headlights on
• If you have asthma or a lung condition, reduce outdoor activities. If smoke levels are high and if shortness of breath or coughing develops, take your reliever medicine or seek medical advice

Avoid approaching this area for some time after the completion of the hazard reduction as there may be falling limbs and trees as well as hot ash. Consult your local brigade for advice on conditions.

A Community Liaison Officer will be in attendance.

Should any further information be required, please contact the District Office at Katoomba on 4784 7444 between 9:00am and 4:30pm. You can also obtain additional information on prescribed burning and property preparedness by accessing the NSW Rural Fire Service website at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au.

 

 

 

 

Inspector Eric Berry

Community Safety Officer

NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE                         

Blue Mountains District

Cnr Valley and Bathurst Roads

Katoomba NSW 2780

 

T: 02 4784 7444

M: 0414 195 615

F: 02 4784 7461

 

www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

www.bluemountains.rfs.nsw.gov.au

 

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Correction

Hi again,

 

Sorry for the confusion. The prescribed burn is in Warrimoo on the 3^rd.

 

That’s what happens when you forget to proof-read your emails.

 

Eric.

 

Inspector Eric Berry

Community Safety Officer

NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE                         

Blue Mountains District

Cnr Valley and Bathurst Roads

Katoomba NSW 2780

 

T: 02 4784 7444

M: 0414 195 615

F: 02 4784 7461

 

www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

www.bluemountains.rfs.nsw.gov.au

 

Prescribed burn advice for 3 September 2011 - Warrimoo

Good Morning everyone,

We wish to advise that a fuel management burn (also called a prescribed burn or hazard reduction) is proposed for the Hazelbrook area this weekend. This will consist of prescribed burning of vegetation to reduce the bush fire fuel and assist in reducing the intensity and adverse impact of bush fires in extreme weather conditions.

The prescribed burning will be undertaken by the NSW Rural Fire Service subject to weather conditions. The burn is scheduled for the following day at the following location:

Date            Saturday 3^rd September 2011            

Location        Cross St, Warrimoo     

Fire & Rescue NSW will also be in attendance.

As the prescribed burn will generate smoke, hot embers and heat, it is important that you consider the following: 

• Keep doors and windows closed to prevent smoke entering homes
• Keep outdoor furniture under cover to prevent ember burns
• Retract pool covers to prevent ember damage
• Remove washing from clotheslines
• Ensure pets have a protected area
• If you are driving a vehicle, slow down, keep windows up and turn headlights on
• If you have asthma or a lung condition, reduce outdoor activities. If smoke levels are high and if shortness of breath or coughing develops, take your reliever medicine or seek medical advice

Avoid approaching this area for some time after the completion of the hazard reduction as there may be falling limbs and trees as well as hot ash. Consult your local brigade for advice on conditions.

A Community Liaison Officer will be in attendance.

Should any further information be required, please contact the District Office at Katoomba on 4784 7444 between 9:00am and 4:30pm. You can also obtain additional information on prescribed burning and property preparedness by accessing the NSW Rural Fire Service website at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au.

Inspector Eric Berry

Community Safety Officer

NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE                         

Blue Mountains District

Cnr Valley and Bathurst Roads

Katoomba NSW 2780

T: 02 4784 7444

M: 0414 195 615

F: 02 4784 7461

www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

www.bluemountains.rfs.nsw.gov.au

[rfs-bluemountains-information] New HeatBeat Radio Podcast

Hi Everyone!

 

Our most recent HeatBeat Radio podcast is now online and available for download.

 

Our podcasts are from our regular radio session with Mark and Sammi Horton on BLU-FM 89.1 every Wednesday from 8:30-9:00am. Listen in as Insp. Eric Berry chats with Mark, Sammi and Michael about all kinds of bushfire and safety-related matters in plain, easy-to-understand language. Fresh, insightful and entertaining listening for everyone!

 

The shows information is as follows:

 

HeatBeat Radio Podcast 10 - Wed 13 July 2011 - About the recent storms in the Blue Mountains & Winter Fire Safety.

 

(Note: For assistance with storm recovery, contact Dept of Community Services – Disaster Assistance line on: 1800 018 444)

 

Find our new podcast section by visiting http://www.bluemountains.rfs.nsw.gov.au/ and select "New Podcasts" from the menu at the left of your screen, or you can go direct via this short link: http://tinyurl.com/RFS-Podcasts.

 

I hope you enjoy listening to the podcasts and, as always, welcome your feedback or suggestions, along with requests or ideas about subjects you'd like to see covered in future episodes.

 

Also, you can now follow us on Twitter:

www.twitter.com/ruralfirebm (or @ruralfirebm) will notify you of all updates sent to this email list, along with a shortened URL to follow for the whole story, along with other important messages. We also use the hashtag #ruralfirebm.

 

Stay safe,

Eric.

 

 

Inspector Eric Berry

Community Safety Officer

NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE                         

Blue Mountains District

Cnr Valley and Bathurst Roads

Katoomba NSW 2780

 

T: 02 4784 7444

M: 0414 195 615

F: 02 4784 7461

 

www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

www.bluemountains.rfs.nsw.gov.au

 

[rfs-bluemountains-information] New Heatbeat

G'Day Everyone!

 

We hope you have all survived more-or-less intact after the past week of chaos throughout the Mountains.

 

As things begin to return to normal, this fortnight's HeatBeat has been posted on our website for your reading pleasure. You can visit it directly at http://bit.ly/pqdo3p, or by going to www.bluemountains.rfs.nsw.gov.au and clicking on the HeatBeat image at the top of the page.

 

There is also a collection of stories, photos and news videos from the recent RFS activities in support of the NSW State Emergency Service over the past week, which can be accessed by clicking the "Storm Information" image, also at the top of the home page. We hope to have a larger photo gallery online later this week.

 

Regards,

RFS Blue Mountains

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Strange emails

Hi Everyone!

 

Most of you will be as surprised as I am to have seen a rogue email turn up yesterday. We’ve no idea how this happened, but it has given me something to puzzle over for the next few days. As we all know the internet can be a strange place, but this has just taken it to a whole new level. Perhaps it’s like those instances where a letter gets lost in a post office for years before being found under a piece of furniture?

 

Apologies to everyone for this rather embarrassing glitch. I hope we can figure it out so it doesn’t happen again.

 

Regards,

 

Eric

(now back from leave)

 

 

 

Inspector Eric Berry

Community Safety Officer

NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE                         

Blue Mountains District

Cnr Valley and Bathurst Roads

Katoomba NSW 2780

 

T: 02 4784 7444

M: 0414 195 615

F: 02 4784 7461

 

www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

www.bluemountains.rfs.nsw.gov.au

 

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Variety Update

Good Evening everyone,

There are still appeals from all Emergency Services for motorists to exercise extreme caution following a terrible day on the roads today (Saturday).

The Great Western Highway through the Blue Mountains was blocked and slowed by a large number of crashes today, as motorists battled through torrential rain and heavy fog. The F3 freeway was also the scene of 15 crashes by lunctime today!

Further intermittent rain is forecast for Sunday, with possible afternoon thunderstorms.

Please take care on the roads and remember to drive with your headlights on when visibility is reduced.

I can also confirm that the NSW Rural Fire Service is running a special competition during the Royal Easter Show. Take a photo of any NSWRFS involvement at the Show, send it in and you could win a prize (and maybe even see your photo published in The Bushfire Bulletin)

You can send your entry by email to media@rfs.nsw.gov.au - the prize is a secret. Good luck to everyone who enters!

Finally, 3 New podcasts will be on our website on Monday.

Don't forget you can also follow us on Twitter - @ruralfirebm or go to www.twitter.com/ruralfirebm

This email is sent on behalf of the NSW Rural Fire Service, Blue Mountains District.

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Podcasts and more!

Good News Everyone!

 

After a short hiatus I am delighted to inform you that our HeatBeat Radio Podcasts are back, with an astounding four (4) new episodes uploaded fresh this morning! Download and listen as we cover subjects from prescribed burning to smoke alarms in caravans to how you can join your local Brigade! As always the link to find them is http://tinyurl.com/RFS-Podcasts or you can visit our website www.bluemountains.rfs.nsw.gov.au and select "New Podcasts" from the left-side menu. I know, it's almost too exciting to believe!

 

Hurry on over and check it out!

 

Finally, I will be away from today until 14 June and thus, in the meantime, please direct any enquiries to bluemountains.FCC@rfs.nsw.gov.au or contact the Blue Mountains District Office on 02 4784 7444.

 

Take care, and I look forward to being of service on my return,

 

Regards,

Eric.

 

 

 

Inspector Eric Berry

Community Safety Officer

NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE                         

Blue Mountains District

Cnr Valley and Bathurst Roads

Katoomba NSW 2780

 

T: 02 4784 7444

M: 0414 195 615

F: 02 4784 7461

 

www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

www.bluemountains.rfs.nsw.gov.au

 

Prescribed Burn (HR) Notification

Please be advised that the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Hawkesbury Area is intending to undertake prescribed (hazard reduction) burning from the morning of Thursday 14 April 2011 until the evening of Friday 15 April 2011.

Weather permitting, units from NPWS, assisted by Brigades from the NSW Rural Fire Service, will be carrying out a hazard reduction burn over the next couple of days at the following location:

Name of HR:   Faulconbridge Ridge East HR

Location:       North of Faulconbridge township along Grose Road and Faulconbridge Ridge Fire Trail to the Grose River and east to Faulconbridge Creek.

Size:            780 hectares (approx)

There may be some amount of smoke in the vicinity after 09:00hrs Thursday (14/04/11). There will be at least one helicopter involved in aerial incendiary work and, if required, making water drops. NPWS crews and Firefighters will be in attendance throughout the activity.

Residents around the hazard reduction burn areas are reminded to take the following precautions:

• Keep doors and windows closed to prevent smoke entering homes
• Keep outdoor furniture under cover to prevent ember burns
• Retract pool covers to prevent ember damage
• Remove washing from clotheslines
• Ensure pets have a protected area
• Vehicles must slow down, keep windows up, turn headlights on
• Sightseers must keep away from burns for their own safety
• If you have asthma or a lung condition, reduce outdoor activities if smoke levels are high and if shortness of breath or coughing develops, take your reliever medicine or seek medical advice

For further information please contact the NPWS Richmond Office on 4588 2400.

The NSW Rural Fire Service is providing this public information service on behalf of the Blue Mountains Bush Fire Management Committee and the Hawkesbury Bush Fire Management Committee.

Regards,

Rob Vinzenz

A/District Manager / Operations Officer

NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE 

Inspector Eric Berry

Community Safety Officer

NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE                         

Blue Mountains District

Cnr Valley and Bathurst Roads

Katoomba NSW 2780

T: 02 4784 7444

M: 0414 195 615

F: 02 4784 7461

www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

www.bluemountains.rfs.nsw.gov.au

[rfs-bluemountains-information] New Podcast Online & Radio Show reminder

Hello Everyone,

 

Although it's a little late, the most recent HeatBeat Radio podcast is now online and available for download.

 

Our podcasts are from our regular radio session with Mark and Sammi Horton on BLU-FM 89.1 every Wednesday from 8:30-9:00am. Listen in as Insp. Eric Berry chats with Mark, Sammi and Michael about all kinds of bushfire and safety-related matters in plain, easy-to-understand language. Fresh, insightful and entertaining listening for everyone!

 

The shows information is as follows:

 

HeatBeat Radio Podcast 04 - Wed 16 February 2011 - About the Northern Strategic Line Project, About the Fire Trail Vegetation Management Project.

 

Find our new podcast section by visiting http://www.bluemountains.rfs.nsw.gov.au/ and select "New Podcasts" from the menu at the left of your screen, or you can go direct via this short link: http://tinyurl.com/RFS-Podcasts.

 

This week (Wed 23 March 2011), as it is Seniors Week, we'll be discussing AIDER - (Assist Infirm Disabled and Elderly Residents) a one-off, free service, supporting vulnerable residents to live more safely and confidently in their home on bush fire prone land.

 

Tune in from 8:30am this Wednesday to BLU-FM 89.1 or look out for the next podcast, coming out by the end of this week.

 

I hope you enjoy listening to the podcasts and, as always, welcome your feedback or suggestions, along with requests or ideas about subjects you'd like to see covered in future episodes.

 

From user feedback we are investigating an RSS feed for our podcasts and making them available for iPod and iPhone users too!

 

Also, you can now follow us on Twitter:

www.twitter.com/ruralfirebm (or @ruralfirebm) will notify you of all updates sent to this email list, along with a shortened URL to follow for the whole story, along with other important messages. We also use the hashtag #ruralfirebm.

 

Stay safe,

Eric.

 

Inspector Eric Berry

Community Safety Officer

NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE                         

Blue Mountains District

Cnr Valley and Bathurst Roads

Katoomba NSW 2780

 

T: 02 4784 7444

M: 0414 195 615

F: 02 4784 7461

 

www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

www.bluemountains.rfs.nsw.gov.au

 

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Bad weather continuing

Good Afternoon,

Heavy rain, possible storms and heavy fog will continue to impact the Mountains and Greater Sydney Area this afternoon and overnight. Severe flooding has impacted the Illawarra area south of Sydney this afternoon.

Emergency Services are urging residents and motorists to exercise extreme caution, especially when driving.

For life-threatening emergencies call '000' immediately.

For assistance with rain or storm damage, contact the State Emergency Service on 132 500.

__
You can now follow us on Twitter:
www.twitter.com/ruralfirebm

This email is sent on behalf of the NSW Rural Fire Service, Blue Mountains District.

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Incident Notification - Search and Rescue at Mt Wilson

Good Afternoon,

 

Up to 50 RFS volunteer firefighters and officers are proceeding to Mt Wilson to assist NSW Police Rescue and NSW Ambulance Service with the carry-out of an injured bushwalker in the Wollongambie area, near Mt Wilson. The incident will possibly take many hours to complete owing to the remote area and the very poor weather conditions.

 

An update will be provided as additional information becomes available.

[rfs-bluemountains-information] HeatBeat Podcasts now online

Good Afternoon Everyone,

We're delighted to announce the return of our HeatBeat Radio Podcasts. To add even more enjoyment, we've uploaded three new podcasts for your listening pleasure!

The podcasts are from our regular radio session with Mark and Sammi Horton on BLU-FM 89.1 every Wednesday from 8:30-9:00am. Listen in as Insp. Eric Berry chats with Mark about all kinds of bushfire and safety-related matters in plain, easy-to-understand language. Fresh, insightful and entertaining listening for everyone!

The shows are as follows:

HeatBeat Radio Podcast 01 - Wed 16 February 2011 - Why do we need to burn sometimes and not others
HeatBeat Radio Podcast 02 - Wed 02 March 2011 - New research findings about the bushfire history of Australia
HeatBeat Radio Podcast 03 - Wed 09 March 2011 - Bushfire Myths and Facts

Find our new podcast section by visiting http://www.bluemountains.rfs.nsw.gov.au/ and select "New Podcasts" from the menu at the left of your screen, or you can go direct via this short link: http://tinyurl.com/RFS-Podcasts.

This week (Wed 16 March 2011) we'll be discussing some new projects in the Mountains. One is bushfire risk, property protection, access and strategic bushfire containment options from Blackheath to Hawkesbury Heights along the northern fringes of the settlements. The other is assessing Essential and Important Fire Trails throughout the Blue Mountains with a view to ensuring that the fire trails are properly maintained to allow safe access and egress by trimming overhanging or overgrown vegetation, on existing trails only.

Tune in from 8:30am this Wednesday to BLU-FM 89.1 or look out for the next podcast, coming out by the end of this week.

I hope you enjoy listening to the podcasts and, as always, welcome your feedback or suggestions, along with requests or ideas about subjects you'd like to see covered in future episodes.

Also, you can now follow us on Twitter:
www.twitter.com/ruralfirebm (or @ruralfirebm) will notify you of all updates sent to this email list, along with a shortened URL to follow for the whole story.

Stay safe,
Eric.

[rfs-bluemountains-information] HeatBeat and BluFM this week!

Good Afternoon Everyone,

 

This week's Blue Mountains HeatBeat is now available online at http://bit.ly/hjvwsc.

 

Also you can tune in to BluFM 89.1 every Wednesday between 8:30-9:00am for our regular chat with hosts Mark and Sammi Horton on bushfire news and information. This week's topic will be "Bushfire Myths".

 

Warmest Regards,

RFS Blue Mountains

[rfs-bluemountains-information] total fire ban update 7am

Good Morning.

Based on an treated weather forecast for hot and windy conditions, At 7am this morning a TOTAL FIRE BAN has been declared for the Greater Sydney Area, including the Blue Mountains.

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Severe Thunderstorm Warning - 28 Feb - 14:40hrs

Good Afternoon,

 

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for parts of the Northern Rivers, Mid North Coast, Hunter, Metropolitan, Illawarra, Central Tablelands and Northern Tablelands Forecast Districts.

 

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce large hailstones and damaging winds over the next several hours in parts of the Hunter, Metropolitan, Illawarra and Central Tablelands districts. Locations which may be affected include Penrith, Campbelltown, Orange, Bathurst and Katoomba.

 

The State Emergency Service advises that people should:

* Move your car under cover or away from trees.

* Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and

balcony.

* Keep clear of fallen power lines.

* Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.

* Don't walk, ride your bike or drive through flood water.

* If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest

available place and ring 000 if you need rescue.

* Unplug computers and appliances.

* Avoid using the phone during the storm.

* Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets

indoors as well.

* For emergency help in floods and storms, ring the SES [NSW and

ACT] on 132 500.

 

For emergency assistance call '000' immediately.

 

Regards,

Eric.

 

 

Inspector Eric Berry

Community Safety Officer

NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE                         

Blue Mountains District

Cnr Valley and Bathurst Roads

Katoomba NSW 2780

 

T: 02 4784 7444

M: 0414 195 615

F: 02 4784 7461

 

www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

www.bluemountains.rfs.nsw.gov.au

 

 

 

 

RFS Disclaimer:
This email message is intended only for the addressee(s) and contains information which may be confidential. If you are not the intended recipient, please notify the sender and delete this email and any copies or links to this email completely and immediately from your system. Views expressed in this message are those of the individual sender, and are not necessarily the views of the NSW Rural Fire Service.

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Severe thunderstorm warning

The bureau of meteorology has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for the Central Tablelands. Very heavy rainfall has been recorded at Oberon (35mm in 30 minutes) and as the storm spreads there is also a risk of flash flooding.

The storm cells are approaching the Mountains area. Residents should take care when driving, especially if minor flooding starts to affect roads.

For emergency assistance and life-threatening emergencies call '000' immediately. For assistance with minor flooding or storm damage contact the State Emergency Service on 131 500.

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Prescribed Burning Advice for 11-13 February 2011

Good Afternoon Everyone,

 

Please find below information relating to planned prescribed burns in the Blue Mountains District for the next 3 days.

 

Prescribed Burn (Hazard Reduction) Notification

 

Please be advised that the NSW Rural Fire Service, Blue Mountains District are intending to undertake prescribed burning, weather permitting, at the following locations this week:

 

 

Date              Friday 11^th  February 2011

Name of HR              Bonnie Doon HR

Location                Between Farnells Rd and Narrow Neck Road, Katoomba

Size                    Approx 3.2 hectares

The hazard reduction will commence at approx 1900hrs. There may be large amounts of smoke in the vicinity.

 

 

Date              Friday 11^th  February 2011

Name of HR              Blaxland RFB APZ HR

Location                Blaxland RFB on Attunga Rd

Size                    Approx 0.5 hectares

The hazard reduction will commence at approx 1900hrs. There may be large amounts of smoke in the vicinity

 

 

Date              Sunday 13^th  February 2011

Name of HR              Burns Rd HR

Location                Eastern End of Bonton and Park Rds, Valley Heights

Size                    Approx 3 hectares

The hazard reduction will commence at approx 0900hrs. There may be large amounts of smoke in the vicinity.

 

 

For further information please contact the NSW Rural Fire Service District Office, Katoomba on 4784 7444.

 

Regards,

 

 

 

 

David Hoadley

District Manager      

 

This information is provided on behalf of the Acting District Manager, Superintendent David Hoadley.

 

 

 

Inspector Eric Berry

Community Safety Officer

NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE                         

Blue Mountains District

Cnr Valley and Bathurst Roads

Katoomba NSW 2780

 

T: 02 4784 7444

M: 0414 195 615

F: 02 4784 7461

 

www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

www.bluemountains.rfs.nsw.gov.au

 

 

 

RFS Disclaimer:
This email message is intended only for the addressee(s) and contains information which may be confidential. If you are not the intended recipient, please notify the sender and delete this email and any copies or links to this email completely and immediately from your system. Views expressed in this message are those of the individual sender, and are not necessarily the views of the NSW Rural Fire Service.

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Final Incident Update - Fire Contained - Megalong & Kanimbla Valley 13:45 5 Feb 2011

This is the final message relating to this fire and no further updates will be sent unless there is a significant change to the current situation.

 

A bush fire has been burning in the Megalong Valley/Kanimbla Valley area adjacent to the Cox's River.

 

Current Situation

This fire has now been contained. Firefighters and helicopter crews will be continuing to work on blacking out the fire, ensuring that all burning material is extinguished, and will remain on scene for some time to come.

 

The fire has burned approximately 3-4 hectares. The fire is located within the Lithgow Local Government Area.

 

The additional firefighting units that were on standby have been stood down and will be returning to their stations.

 

  

Advice

All residents of the Megalong and Kanimbla Valleys are advised to continue monitoring conditions in your area.

 

Other information

There is currently a fire burning in the Londonderry/Castlereagh area, approximately 7km east of Hawkesbury Heights. Smoke from this fire may be visible in the lower Mountains.

 

• If your life is at risk, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

• Continue to stay up to date with the bush fire situation by checking http://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au, listening to your local radio station or by calling the NSW RFS Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737. (1800 NSW RFS)

• For information on road closures, check http://livetraffic.rta.nsw.gov.au. Roads may be closed without warning.

 

Incident Update - Megalong/Kanimbla Valley - 13:00hrs 5 Feb 2011

A bush fire is burning in the Megalong Valley/Kanimbla Valley area adjacent to the Cox's River.

Current Situation

The fire is currently approximately 3-4 hectares in size and is being controlled by a combination of firefighting units on the ground and helicopters water-bombing from the air. The fire is currently located within the Lithgow Local Government Area. It is partially in an inaccessible area adjacent to the Cox's River between the Kanimbla and Megalong Valleys. This part of the fire will intially be attacked by the helicopters. Firefighters on the ground with light, medium and heavy tankers, from both Lithgow and Blue Mountains Districts are working on the remainder of the fire.

Additional firefighting units and a forward command vehicle are being staged at Megalong Valley for rapid deployment if required.

 

Fire Behaviour:

• Variable based on local conditions

Fire Intensity:

• Fires can be controlled

• Spot fires can occur close to the main fire

Fire Impact:

• Loss of life unlikely and damage to property will be limited

• Well prepared and actively defended houses can offer safety during a fire

Advice

All residents of the Megalong and Kanimbla Valleys, as well as immediately surrounding areas, are advised to monitor conditions in your area.

Check and follow your Bush Fire Survival Plan.

If you do not have a plan, decide what you will do if the situation changes. Leaving early is your safest option.

Other information

• If your life is at risk, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

• Continue to stay up to date with the bush fire situation by checking http://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/, listening to your local radio station or by calling the NSW RFS Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737. (1800 NSW RFS)

• For information on road closures, check http://livetraffic.rta.nsw.gov.au/. Roads may be closed without warning.

Further information will be provided as it becomes available.