RFS Blue Mountains - Updates

http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/sydney-nsw/man-arrested-over-blue-mountains-bushfire/story-fn7y9brv-1226242322590?sv=76754f0bbea8624996d824820479bd05

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Hazard Reduction tonight at Blaxland

2012-01-13T20:35:00.000+11:00

There is currently a small hazard reduction burn being undertaken in Rosella Cl, Blaland. There is some smoke visible in the area.

For further information, see http://www.bluemountains.rfs.nsw.gov.au/dsp_more_info_latest.cfm?CON_ID=15554

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Man arrested over Blue Mountains bushfire

2012-01-12T10:51:00.000+11:00

Good news everyone!

From the Telegraph’s website:

A MAN has been arrested following investigations into a deliberately-lit bushfire in the Blue Mountains last year.

The bushfire began on the afternoon of October 24 at Katoomba Cascades and burnt an area of about 19 hectares, damaging a number houses.

A man was arrested at Katoomba this morning by detectives attached to the Arson Unit’s Strike Force Tronto and the Blue Mountains Local Area Command.

The 2011-2012 bushfire season continues this month and police urge anyone who notices a bushfire or any suspicious activity to contact Triple Zero (000).

Information about the deliberate lighting of bushfires can be reported anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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] Thunderstorms ahoy!

2012-01-08T18:10:00.000+11:00

Hi again everyone,

It's a warm summer afternoon and that often means something special for The Mountains - you guessed it, thunderstorm time.

There is a cell building west of Katoomba that is heading this way, and an absolute belter (the scientific term) out further west of the tablelands.

No formal warning has been issued by the weather bureau yet, so this is just a quick heads-up for those who might want to power-down their expensive computers etc.

Cheers,
Eric

Sent from my iPhone

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Severe Thunderstorm Warning - 20:10hrs 05 Dec 2011

2012-01-05T20:18:00.000+11:00

Friends,

A Severe Thunderstorm Warning is current for the Central Tablelands area. A Number of storm cells are moving through the area.

An intense cell, currently out near Trunkey, is moving north-east towards the mid and upper Blue Mountains, including Katoomba, Hazelbrook and adjoining villages, later moving down the Mountains. Heavy rain, hail and even some flash flooding are possible, along with lightning & thunder.

For emergency help in floods and storms, ring the NSW SES on 132 500.

For life-threatening emergencies, ring '000' immediately!

Stay safe, stay calm,

Eric

No fires without a permit!

2012-01-03T13:09:00.000+11:00

Over the past few weeks there has been a proliferation (a rapid increase in numbers) of illegal fires. It appears that the majority of these are people burning off on private property without a permit.

The statutory Bush Fire Danger Period runs from October 1st to March 31st. If you are planning to light a fire in the open during this time, you will need a permit!

You will also need to obtain an “Open Burning Approval” from Blue Mountains City Council. Some properties in rural areas of the Mountains have a "class exemption", whilst those properties in and around the townships generally do not (with a very few exemptions).

You may also need an environmental approval or Hazard Reduction Certificate (HRC) from the RFS.

Fire permits are not required for fires for the purpose of heating or cooking, provided that:
- the fire is in a permanently constructed fireplace;
- at a site surrounded by ground that is cleared of all combustible materials for a distance of at least two metres all around;
- The fire is completely extinguished before leaving

Substantial fines and prison terms of up to 12 months may apply to persons who light fires without a permit & appropriate approvals.

For information about Open Burning in the Blue Mountains, visit http://www.bmcc.nsw.gov.au/ and search for “open air burning”.

For information about a Fire Permit, visit http://tinyurl.com/fire-permit.

To apply for a permit, or a Hazard Reduction Certificate, contact the RFS District Office on 02 4784 7444.

[rfs-bluemountains-information]

2011-12-31T12:39:00.000+11:00

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

%chive_on%

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

2011-11-18T15:07:00.000+11:00

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

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

2011-11-18T10:07:00.000+11:00

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

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

2011-11-15T18:45:00.000+11:00

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

2011-11-15T18:23:00.000+11:00

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

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

2011-11-14T13:39:00.000+11:00

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

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

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

2011-11-10T14:35:00.001+11:00

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

2011-11-08T16:57:00.001+11:00

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

2011-11-08T09:25:00.001+11:00

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

2011-11-07T13:33:00.001+11:00

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]

2011-10-25T15:29:00.000+11:00

Please see attached

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Bushfire Update 0600 25.10.2011

2011-10-25T07:56:00.001+11:00

please see the attached Email Update

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Hazard Reduction Notification

2011-10-21T10:50:00.001+11:00

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

2011-09-21T18:47:00.000+10:00

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

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

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

2011-09-20T12:07:00.000+10:00

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

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

2011-09-20T06:36:00.000+10:00

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

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

2011-09-16T08:25:00.000+10:00

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

2011-09-05T13:38:00.000+10:00

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

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Correction

2011-09-01T10:28:00.000+10:00

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

Prescribed burn advice for 3 September 2011 - Warrimoo

2011-09-01T10:12:00.002+10:00

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.

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

[rfs-bluemountains-information] New HeatBeat Radio Podcast

2011-07-18T11:51:00.001+10:00

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

[rfs-bluemountains-information] New Heatbeat

2011-07-11T12:44:00.001+10:00

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

2011-07-04T13:19:00.001+10:00

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

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Variety Update

2011-07-03T20:07:00.000+10:00

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!

2011-04-20T12:00:00.001+10:00

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

Prescribed Burn (HR) Notification

2011-04-13T14:25:00.003+10:00

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

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

2011-03-22T11:05:00.000+11:00

Hello Everyone,

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

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.

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:

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

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Bad weather continuing

2011-03-21T15:24:00.001+11:00

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

2011-03-19T17:46:00.001+11:00

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

2011-03-14T13:34:00.006+11:00

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!

2011-03-07T14:43:00.000+11:00

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

2011-03-01T07:25:00.000+11:00

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

2011-02-28T14:43:00.000+11:00

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

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Severe thunderstorm warning

2011-02-12T14:47:00.000+11:00

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

2011-02-11T12:24:00.000+11:00

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.bluemountains.rfs.nsw.gov.au

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

2011-02-05T14:02:00.001+11:00

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

2011-02-05T13:22:00.001+11:00

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.

Initial Incident Notification - Megalong Valley

2011-02-05T12:25:00.002+11:00

Rural Fire Service crews are responding to a confirmed fire in the vicinity of Peach Tree Road at Megalong Valley.

At this stage the fire is small, however under the current weather conditions it may increase in size rapidly.

Residents in the vicinity are advised to activate their bushfire action plans and be vigilant for falling embers and smoke.

Further information will be provided as soon as it becomes available.

Prescribed burn update 00:30

2011-02-05T01:10:00.002+11:00

Good morning everyone,
Firefighters successfully completed the small prescribed burn at Blaxland late in the evening and have now finished blacking-out the area, ensuring that the area is safe ahead of the hot weather predicted for Saturday.
Firefighters and officers will remain in attendance throughout the night and rest of today to ensure there is no chance of any reignition.
Some calls were recieved from residents yesterday afternoon complaining about smoke in the area, however as most of these were recieved in the hour prior to this burn being commenced, additional personnel were dispatched to inspect the area from East Blaxland to Mt Riverview.
No fire or smoke was found and investigating firefighters were unable to ascertain the cause of this smell.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank our community for their assistance and support during this operation.

Total Fire Ban Advice for Saturday 5 Feb 2011 - Greater Sydney and other areas

2011-02-04T14:20:00.001+11:00

Good Afternoon Everyone,

On Saturday, hot, dry and windy conditions are expected to increase fire dangers to dangerous levels in parts of NSW.

A TOTAL FIRE BAN has been declared for tomorrow, Saturday 5 February 2011.

The Commissioner, NSW Rural Fire Service will TOTALLY BAN THE LIGHTING OF FIRES from midnight tonight [Friday 4 Feb 2011] until midnight tomorrow night [Saturday 5 Feb 2011] in the following NSW Fire Areas:

Greater Hunter, Greater Sydney Region

Central Ranges, Monaro Alpine,

The Blue Mountains Local Government Area is part of the Greater Sydney Region Fire Area.

What does this mean?

Saturday will be very hot, dry and windy. This combination can effect fire behaviour and cause smaller fires to increase in size and intensity quite rapidly. The lower-than-average humidity and strong winds - and presence of very high temperatures - is of great concern.

After another very warm night tonight, temperatures in the lower Mountains will climb into the mid-40's and the upper Mountains will see mid-to-high-30's. West- to North-West winds will strengthen during the day. A late wind change is possible later on Saturday evening.

Saturday will be very hot across Sydney with temperatures into the forties in many suburbs with a very warm night to follow, but cloudy conditions on Sunday and a cooler southerly change during the afternoon will provide welcome relief from the heat, according to the Bureau of Meteorology.

Volunteer Firefighters from the NSW Rural Fire Service will be on stand-by at a number of locations throughout the area.

During a Total Fire Ban no fire may be lit in the open and all Fire permits are suspended. This includes incinerators and barbecues which burn solid fuel, e.g. wood or charcoal.

You may use a gas or electric barbecue, but only if:

It is on a residential property within 20 metres of the house or dwelling
It is a picnic area and the appliance is approved by Council, National Parks or State Forest
It is under the direct control of a responsible adult
The ground within 2 metres of the barbecue is cleared of all materials which could burn
You have an immediate and continuous supply of water available

Lighting a fire on a day of Total Fire Ban attracts a fine of up to $5500 and/or 12 months gaol. Penalties for a fire that escapes and damages or destroys life, property or the environment can attract much greater fines and gaol terms with maximums at $100,000 and/or 14 years gaol.

What else can I do?

Be aware. If a bushfire does get going, the situation can change very quickly. Be prepared to activate your Bushfire Survival Plan.

People should take simple precautions to ensure they stay healthy in the heat by staying well hydrated, avoiding alcohol and hot or sugary drinks, limiting your physical activity and trying to stay out of the sun during the hottest part of the day. If you can, it's a good idea to spend some time in an air-conditioned building.

Signs of heat-related illness include confusion, dizziness, fainting, nausea, vomiting, weakness, headaches and loss of sweating. People showing any of these signs should seek urgent medical attention through their GP or local emergency department. For life-threatening emergencies, call '000' immediately.

During days where a Total Fire Ban has been declared, we will be doing our best to keep everyone informed of any major incidents that might impact on our community. This may not necessarily be a fire in the Blue Mountains, but even a fire in another area can send significant amounts of smoke in our direction.

If you see a fire, report it immediately by calling '000' and asking for the Fire Brigade!

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.bluemountains.rfs.nsw.gov.au

Prescribed Burning Notification Friday 4 Feb 2011 [Blaxland]

2011-02-04T13:49:00.002+11:00

Prescribed Burning Notification

Please be advised that the NSW Rural Fire Service, Blue Mountains District is intending to undertake prescribed (hazard reduction) burning on the evening of Friday, 4th February 2011.

Weather permitting, units from the Rural Fire Service will be carrying out a hazard reduction burn at the following location, on behalf of the land manager:

Name of HR: Yoogali Terrace

Location: Yoogali Terrace, East Blaxland

Size: 0.5 hectares

There may be some amount of smoke in the vicinity after 20:00hrs (8.00pm). Firefighters will be in attendance throughout the activity.

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] Hazard Reduction Notification

2010-11-25T13:54:00.001+11:00

Hazard Reduction Notification

Please be advised that the NSW Rural Fire Service, Blue Mountains District is intending to undertake hazard reduction burning on Saturday 27 November 2010

Weather permitting units from the Rural Fire Service will be carrying out a hazard reduction burn at the following location:

Name of HR: North Hall Parade

Location: North of Hall Parade and Rocklea Street Hazelbrook

Size: 20 hectares

NSW Fire Brigade will also be in attendance.

There may be large amounts of smoke in the vicinity after 10.00am.

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] severe storm warning for Friday

2010-10-14T23:15:00.001+11:00

At 22.52 tonight a severe storm warning for heavy rain and strong winds has been issued for large parts of inland NSW for Thursday night and Friday, clearing later in the afternoon. The warning area includes the Central Tablelands.

Winds from 50 to 100km/h, with gusts over 110km/h may be expected, along with rain and thunderstorms which may lead to flash flooding.

Further information is available from www.bom.gov.au

Hazard Reduction Notification

2010-10-01T10:40:00.001+10:00

Hazard Reduction Notification

Good Afternoon

Please be advised that weather permitting the NSW Rural Fire Service, Blue Mountains District, along with NSW Fire Brigades and National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS) are intending to undertake hazard reduction burning at the following locations from Saturday 2^nd October – Sunday 3^rd October 2010.

The locations and size of the hazard reductions are as follows:

FAULCONBRIDGE

· Date: Saturday 2^nd October – Sunday 3^rd October 2010

· Name of HR Grose Rd West

· Location Grose Rd to Shirlow Ave, FAULCONBRIDGE

· Size 101 Hectares

· Map UBD Reference 15 J16

Hawkesbury Heights

· Date Saturday 2^nd October – Sunday 3^rd October 2010

· Name of HR Lynches Creek South

· Location Hawkesbury Rd, Hawkesbury Heights

· Size 777 Hectares

· Map UBD Reference: 17 L4

The proposed hazard reductions have been endorsed by the Blue Mountains Bush Fire Management Committee.

Residents are advised that there may be a large amount of smoke at times and to keep doors and windows closed. Residents are also asked to avoid the area whilst the operations are in progress.

· For information on obtaining and preparing a Bush Fire Survival Plan go to the RFS website at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

· For information on Neighbourhood Safer Places (NSP) go to www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

· For information in relation to bush fire hazards and preparing your property contact your local Rural Fire Brigade Station or your local NSW RFS Fire Control Centre.

PREPARE. ACT. SURVIVE.

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Public Information for Bushfires - how can we improve?

2010-05-27T10:14:00.000+10:00

Good Morning Everyone,

There are two items I would like to bring to everyone's attention today - both of which are survey-related. By taking a bit of your time you will be able to highlight how and where we can make improvements to the services we provide to you, our community, in the key areas of bushfire information and education.

Firstly, the NSW Rural Fire Service is planning to redesign its public website. In order to do this in a way that will better service our community, the first thing to do is ask our community how we can make things better. The outcome of the new design will also then flow down to our local District website, with which most of you are familiar already, as we use the same template.

For more information about this survey, go to http://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/dsp_more_info_latest.cfm?CON_ID=10112. Please make sure you answer all of the questions on the survey, otherwise it won't let you hit the "submit" button.

There is also an opportunity to participate in the next stage of the website redevelopment (website layout) based on your own background or area of interest. Once again, this is all detailed at http://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/dsp_more_info_latest.cfm?CON_ID=10112.

The direct link to the survey is http://tinyurl.com/NSWRFS-PW-Survey.

Secondly, Sean Bull, from UTS (University of Technology, Sydney) is undertaking research titled " Attitudes, Legislation and Survival - Impacts on Dwellings in Bushfire Prone Areas" and is looking for residents of bushfire-prone areas to answer a survey related to this research. The questions cover such areas as preparation, plans and experiences. As you know, the RFS in the Blue Mountains is committed to continuous improvement and the results of Sean's survey will also be able to give us some solid evidence on what things we can focus on in the future.

Sean is a Blue Mountains local and obviously is keen to have as much input from Mountains residents as possible. To participate in this survey (which should only take 5 or 10 minutes to fill out), email Sean at s.m.bull@hotmail.com with the heading "Survey" and he will forward you a copy.

Finally, as always, I would like to extend an invitation to everyone to share this information freely. It is only by your participation that we can do a better job.

Regards,

Eric.

Inspector Eric J Berry
Community Safety Officer
Blue Mountains District
NSW Rural Fire Service

Working towards a FireWise community

Emergency Services Centre
Cnr Bathurst Rd & Valley Rd
KATOOMBA NSW 2780

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] Hazard Reduction burns this weekend

2010-05-14T13:41:00.001+10:00

Good afternoon everyone,

There are two planned prescribed burns being undertaken over this weekend, weather permitting. The details are below:

1. Saturday & Sunday, 15-16/May/10 : Robyn Road, Winmalee = approx 90ha

2. Saturday & Sunday, 15-16/May/10: Chapman Pde, Faulconbridge = approx 70ha

These hazard reduction burns are part of a planned bushfire fuel reduction designed to protect life and property from intense wildfires. Hazard reduction will not completely stop bushfires from starting and spreading, but can assist firefighters with containment strategies and property protection.

All landholders, including private property, must treat bushfire hazards on their own land and prepare their own properties adequately and effectively to cope with bushfire.

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 – this includes bushwalkers, mountain bikers and dog walkers.

- 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

Regards

Sue Hardy

Blue Mountains District Office

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Upcoming prescribed burns - Friday and Sunday

2010-03-25T10:34:00.000+11:00

Good Morning Everyone,

There are two planned prescribed burns being undertaken over the next few days, weather permitting. The details are below:

1. Friday night, 26/3/10: Shipley Road, x 4.5 Ha.

2. Sunday 28/3/10: Bonton Rd, Springwood x 3 ha

All landholders, including private property, must treat bushfire hazards on their own land and prepare their own properties adequately and effectively to cope with bushfire.

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

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] Major Gas leak - Katoomba

2010-02-01T12:30:00.000+11:00

Good Afternoon,

NSW Fire Brigades are currently dealing with a major gas leak in Katoomba.

The area between Parke St, Waratah St, Katoomba St and Lurline St Katoomba is currently closed and several hundred people have been evacuated. Any persons intending to visit Katoomba are advised to avoid the area for the next few hours.

Any further enquiries should be directed to NSW Fire Brigades or NSW Police.

Four Units from the NSW Rural Fire Service are currently assisting the NSW Fire Brigades with evacuation operations.

Regards...

[rfs-bluemountains-information] Severe Thunderstorm Warning - Friday 29 Jan

2010-01-29T16:29:00.000+11:00

Good Afternoon Everyone,

At 4:00pm this afternoon several storm cells were visible on the Bureau of Meteorology rain radar. Scattered showers and thunderstorms are included in today's Central Tablelands forecast.

At 4:17pm, the Bureau issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for large hailstones, flash flooding and damaging wind for a number of forecast areas, including the Central Tablelands.

The text of the warning is as follows:

Issued at 4:17 pm Friday, 29 January 2010.

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce large hailstones, very heavy

rainfall, flash flooding and damaging winds in the warning area over the next

several hours. Locations which may be affected include Scone, Armidale,

Tamworth, Gunnedah, Moree and Narrabri.

Although the Blue Mountains is not specifically mentioned, there is some storm activity in the area.

A small storm cell is currently over the Warragamba Catchment, moving toward Hazelbrook, Woodford and surrounding areas. Another larger cell, with heavy rain and some lightning activity, is currently 20km South of Katoomba and moving to the North & West.

Residents are advised to take care, especially when driving, and are reminded to switch on their headlights when driving in adverse weather conditions.

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.

* 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!

Regards,

Inspector Eric J Berry
Community Safety Officer
Blue Mountains District
NSW Rural Fire Service

Working towards a FireWise community

Emergency Services Centre
Cnr Bathurst Rd & Valley Rd
KATOOMBA NSW 2780

Ph: 02 4784 7444 (Office)
Ph: 02 4784 7416 (Direct)
Ph: 0414 195 615 (Mobile)
Fax: 02 4784 7461
E-Mail: eric.berry@rfs.nsw.gov.au <mailto:eric.berry@rfs.nsw.gov.au>

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] Thunderstorm advice - 1:10pm Thur 28 Jan

2010-01-28T13:18:00.001+11:00

Good Afternoon Everyone,

There is currently a strong storm cell overhead Katoomba and moving in an easterly direction. A formal Thunderstorm Warning has not yet been issued.

Similar to yesterday, one large storm cell is currently over the Warragamba Catchment, moving toward Warragamba and Camden. Another cell is currently over Katoomba. It is intensifying and moving to the east. A third cell is developing to the south of Oberon and moving toward the Blue Mountains.

Thunder, lightning and heavy local rain is expected to continue as the storm cell moves east. Some localised flash flooding may occur.

Residents are advised to take care, especially when driving, and are reminded to switch on their headlights when driving in adverse weather conditions.

For all life-threatening emergencies, call '000' immediately!

Inspector Eric J Berry
Community Safety Officer
Blue Mountains District
NSW Rural Fire Service

Working towards a FireWise community

Emergency Services Centre
Cnr Bathurst Rd & Valley Rd
KATOOMBA NSW 2780

Ph: 02 4784 7444 (Office)
Ph: 02 4784 7416 (Direct)
Ph: 0414 195 615 (Mobile)
Fax: 02 4784 7461
E-Mail: eric.berry@rfs.nsw.gov.au <mailto:eric.berry@rfs.nsw.gov.au>

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 - Wednesday 27 Jan

2010-01-27T14:47:00.001+11:00

Good Afternoon Everyone,

At 2:13pm this afternoon the Bureau of Meteorology issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for various locations, including the Blue Mountains.

One large storm cell is currently over the Warragamba Catchment, moving toward Warragamba and Camden. Another cell is currently 16km west of Katoomba and moving directly east. A third cell is over Lithgow and is also heading east toward Kurrajong.

The text of the warning follows:

Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce large hailstones and damaging winds

over the next several hours in the CENTRAL TABLELANDS district. Locations which

may be affected include Orange, Mudgee, 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.

* 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!

Inspector Eric J Berry
Community Safety Officer
Blue Mountains District
NSW Rural Fire Service

Working towards a FireWise community

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] Total Fire Ban Advice for Saturday 23 Jan 2010

2010-01-22T17:26:00.000+11:00

Good Evening Everyone,

On Saturday, hot, dry and windy conditions are expected to increase fire dangers to dangerous levels in parts of NSW.

A TOTAL FIRE BAN has been declared for tomorrow, Saturday 23 January 2010.

The Commissioner, NSW Rural Fire Service will TOTALLY BAN THE LIGHTING OF FIRES from midnight tonight [Friday 22 Jan 2010] until midnight tomorrow night [Saturday 23 Jan 2010] in the following NSW Fire Areas:

Greater Hunter, Greater Sydney Region

Illawarra/Shoalhaven, Central Ranges, Southern Ranges, Monaro Alpine,

Upper Central West Plains, Lower Central West Plains,

Southern Slopes, Eastern Riverina, Southern Riverina,

Northern Riverina, South Western.

The Blue Mountains Local Government Area is part of the Greater Sydney Region Fire Area.

What does this mean?

Saturday will be warm, dry and windy. This combination can effect fire behaviour and cause smaller fires to increase in size and intensity quite rapidly. The lower-than-average humidity and strong winds - even in the absence of high temperatures - is of greatest concern.

Volunteer Firefighters from the NSW Rural Fire Service will be on stand-by at a number of locations throughout the area.

During a Total Fire Ban no fire may be lit in the open and all Fire permits are suspended. This includes incinerators and barbecues which burn solid fuel, e.g. wood or charcoal.

You may use a gas or electric barbecue, but only if:

It is on a residential property within 20 metres of the house or dwelling

It is a picnic area and the appliance is approved by Council, National Parks or State Forest

It is under the direct control of a responsible adult

The ground within 2 metres of the barbecue is cleared of all materials which could burn

You have an immediate and continuous supply of water available

What can I do?

Be aware. If a bushfire does get going, the situation can change very quickly. Be prepared to activate your Bushfire Survival Plan.

If you see a fire, report it immediately by calling '000' and asking for the Fire Brigade!

Stay safe,

Eric.

Inspector Eric J Berry
Community Safety Officer
Blue Mountains District
NSW Rural Fire Service

Working towards a FireWise community

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] Information from Blue Mountains Fire Control Centre, Katoomba on Bush Fire Situation in the Blue Mountains City Council area.

2009-12-18T15:45:00.000+11:00

Information from Blue Mountains Fire Control Centre, Katoomba on Bush Fire Situation in the Blue Mountains City Council area.

Issued at 1500hrs on 18^th December 2009

Overview

NSW Rural Fire Service, National Park & Wildlife Service and ACT fire fighters are attending to a number of fires in remote and rugged terrain within the Blue Mountains National Park started by lightning shortly after 3pm yesterday. The fires are contained and there is currently no threat to property.

The first fire is located south west of Mt Caley approximately 7kms south of Mt Tomah in Zobel Gully. The second fire is located 3kms north west of the Grose Head South Fire, north of the Grose River in Atkinson Gully. The third fire is located 6kms south east of Berambing on the southern side of the Grose River at Kolonga Walls. The fourth fire 5 kilometres west of Yarramundi on Kariwoga Ridge at Grose Head South.

Today’s inclement weather has prevented the use of water bombing aircraft accessing the fires. Remote Area Firefighting Crews have been deployed to Zobel Gully to strengthen containment lines and mop-up the edges of the fire ground. Light showers and drizzle have fallen across the fire ground and will assist firefighting operations at Zobel Gully.

Zobel Gully Fire

The fire has burnt approximately 2ha of bushland. Remote Area Firefighting Crews will be deployed today to continue with mopping up along the burnt edge. Currently there is no active fire along the edge of the fire ground.

Kolonga Walls Fire

The fire has burnt approximately 3ha of bushland. When weather conditions allow, Remote Area Firefighting Crews will be deployed to mop up along the burnt edge of the fire ground assisted by water bombing aircraft.

Atkinson Gully Fire

Yesterday, water bombing aircraft succeeded in extinguishing the active fire edge. Aircraft will continue to monitor the fire ground and Remote Area Firefighting Crews will be deployed to patrol the edges of the fire ground, when weather conditions allow. There is currently no threat to property.

Grose Head South Fire

The fire is now contained and there is no threat to property. The fire has burnt approximately 80 hectares of bushland and, when weather conditions allow, Remote Area Firefighting Crews will be deployed to mop up along the burnt edge of the fire ground assisted by water bombing aircraft.

Advice

While there is no current threat to property, residents in the areas of Linden, Faulconbridge, Springwood, Valley Heights, Hawkesbury Heights, Bowen Mountain, Grose Vale, Grose Wold, Winmalee and Yarramundi should continue to monitor the situation. Residents should remain vigilant and follow their Bush Fire Survival Plan.

Information

Tom Hunter Park, Faulconbridge

The air operations will continue to be operated from Tom Hunter Park on Hunter Way, Faulconbridge. Residents around the park area will see aircraft and support vehicle movements around the area throughout today and the next few days. Tom Hunter Park will remain closed until further notice.

Closures of Walking Trails in the Blue Mountains National Park

All walking trails at Springwood Ridge, Blue Gum Swamp and Shaws Ridge north of Winmalee will remain closed until further notice. For further information on National Park Closures go to the National Parks & Wildlife Service website:

Bush Fire Survival Plan

It is your responsibility to prepare yourself, your family and your home for the threat of bush fire. You need to make the decision to either Leave Early or Stay and Defend. Regardless of your decision you must prepare your property to give you, your family and your home the best chance of survival. For information on obtaining and preparing a Bush Fire Survival Plan go to the RFS website at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au or by calling call 1800 NSW RFS (1800 679 737).

Unless fire conditions substantially change this will be the final Community Newsletter.

· Updates on this fire and the current and the Fire Danger Rating in your area are available at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au or by calling call 1800 NSW RFS (1800 679 737).

· For information on Neighbourhood Safer Places (NSP) go to www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

· For information in relation to bush fire hazards and preparing your property contact your local Rural Fire Brigade Station or your local NSW RFS Fire Control Centre.

· If you need to report a new fire or require urgent assistance, dial Triple Zero (000).

PREPARE. ACT. SURVIVE.

Authorised by Deputy Incident Controller. Paul Godfrey, Blue Mountains Fire Control Centre. Issued by the

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

Inspector Paul McGrath
Learning & Development Officer
Blue Mountains District
NSW Rural Fire Service

Emergency Services Centre
Cnr Bathurst Rd & Valley Rd
KATOOMBA NSW 2780

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] Community Newsletter Thursday 17-12-09 5:30pm

2009-12-17T17:44:00.001+11:00

Information from Blue Mountains Fire Control Centre, Katoomba on Bush Fire Situation in the Blue Mountains Council area.

Issued at 1730hrs on 17^th December 2009

Overview

Two fires started shortly after 3pm within the Blue Mountains National Park. The first fire is located in remote and rugged terrain south west of Mt Caley approximately 7kms south of Mt Tomah in Zobel Gully. The second fire is located 3kms north west of the Grose Head South Fire, north of the Grose River in Atkinson Gully.

Zobel Gully Fire

The fire is uncontained however there is currently no threat to properties. Water bombing aircraft continue to work the edges of the fire to slow its progression.

Atkinson Gully Fire

Water bombing aircraft have succeeded in extinguishing the active fire edge. Aircraft will continue to monitor the fire ground through to the evening. There is currently no threat to property.

Grose Head South Fire

The fire is now contained and there is no threat to property. The fire has burnt approximately 80 hectares of bushland and is being monitored by aircraft.

Advice

Lower Blue Mountains Residents. There is currently a large fire in Londonderry (Devlin Road). To stay informed of current fire activity by monitoring local media and regularly checking for updates on the RFS website www.rfs.nsw.gov.au or by calling Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 NSW RFS (1800 679 737).

A Total Fire Ban remains in place for the Blue Mountains area until midnight tonight (18/12/2009). Temperatures are forecast to reach 39 degrees, Relative Humidly 18% and winds from the W/NW up to 50km/h.

The fire danger rating will be severe. A severe fire danger rating means fire can threaten suddenly and without warning. Your survival is the primary consideration in any decision to “Leave Early” or “Stay and Defend”.

Information

While there is no immediate threat to property, residents in the areas of Linden, Faulconbridge, Springwood, Valley Heights, Hawkesbury Heights, Bowen Mountain, Grose Vale, Grose Wold, Winmalee and Yarramundi should continue to monitor the situation. Residents should remain vigilant and follow your Bush Fire Survival Plan. For information on obtaining and preparing a Bush Fire Survival Plan go to the RFS website at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au or by calling call 1800 NSW RFS (1800 679 737).

PREPARE. ACT. SURVIVE.

Authorised by Incident Controller Supt. Tom Shirt, Blue Mountains Fire Control Centre. Issued by the

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

Inspector Paul McGrath
Learning & Development Officer
Blue Mountains District
NSW Rural Fire Service

Emergency Services Centre
Cnr Bathurst Rd & Valley Rd
KATOOMBA NSW 2780

Phone     02 4784 7444
Direct      02 4784 7419
Fax         02 4784 7461
Mobile    0414 822 159
Email: Paul.McGrath@rfs.nsw.gov.au

//// NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE........ for our community

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] Blue Mountains Bush Fire Advice - 17/12/09 - 1525

2009-12-17T15:29:00.001+11:00

Dear Residents,

Currently there are two bushfires burning in the Blue Mountains. The first fire is in Zobel Gully south west of Mt Caley aproximatley 7kms south of Mt Tohah, the second fire is 3kms north west of the Grose Head South Fire At this stage there is no direct threat to property. Stay informed of current fire activity by monitoring local media and regularly checking for updates on the RFS website www.rfs.nsw.gov.au or by calling Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 NSW RFS (1800 679 737).

Kind Regards,

Inspector Paul McGrath
Learning & Development Officer
Blue Mountains District
NSW Rural Fire Service

Emergency Services Centre
Cnr Bathurst Rd & Valley Rd
KATOOMBA NSW 2780

Phone     02 4784 7444
Direct      02 4784 7419
Fax         02 4784 7461
Mobile    0414 822 159
Email: Paul.McGrath@rfs.nsw.gov.au

//// NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE........ for our community

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] A TOTAL FIRE BAN HAS BEEN DECLARED FOR BLUE MOUNTAINS TOMORROW

2009-12-16T18:47:00.001+11:00

Information from Blue Mountains Fire Control Centre, Katoomba on Bush Fire Situation in the Blue Mountains Council area.

Issued at 1800hrs on 16^th December 2009

A TOTAL FIRE BAN HAS BEEN DECLARED FOR BLUE MOUNTAINS TOMORROW

A Total Fire Ban has been declared for the Blue Mountains area from midnight tonight until midnight 18/12/2009. Temperatures are forecast to reach 39 degrees, Relative Humidly 18% and winds from the W/NW up to 50km/h.

The fire danger rating will be severe. A severe fire danger rating means fire can threaten suddenly and without warning and your survival is the primary consideration in any decision to “Leave Early” or “Stay and Defend”.

Grose Head South Fire

Today NSW Rural Fire Service, National Park & Wildlife Service and ACT firefighters have continued to strengthen containment lines for the Grose Head South fire. Firefighters have worked to extinguish hotspots that have been identified by aerial recognisance. The fire is now contained and there is no threat to property. Firefighters and aircraft will continue working on the fireground this evening and through tomorrow.

Advice

While there is no immediate threat to property, residents in the areas of Hawkesbury Heights, Bowen Mountain, Grose Vale, Grose Wold, Winmalee and Yarramundi, as well as the greater Blue Mountains area should continue to monitor the situation.

Information

National Parks and Council Reserve closures

All walking trails in the Springwood Ridge, Blue Gum swamp and Shaws Ridge north of Winmalee will remain closed until further notice. For further information on National Park Closures go to the National Parks & Wildlife Service website:

http://www.bluemountains.rfs.nsw.gov.au/dsp_more_info.cfm?CON_ID=9279&CAT_ID=76

· Updates on this fire and the current and the Fire Danger Rating in your area are available at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au or by calling call 1800 NSW RFS (1800 679 737).

· For information on Neighbourhood Safer Places (NSP) go to www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

· If you need to report a new fire or require urgent assistance, dial Triple Zero (000).

Authorised by Incident Controller Supt. Tom Shirt, Blue Mountains Fire Control Centre.

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

Inspector Paul McGrath
Learning & Development Officer
Blue Mountains District
NSW Rural Fire Service

Emergency Services Centre
Cnr Bathurst Rd & Valley Rd
KATOOMBA NSW 2780

Phone     02 4784 7444
Direct      02 4784 7419
Fax         02 4784 7461
Mobile    0414 822 159
Email: Paul.McGrath@rfs.nsw.gov.au

//// NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE........ for our community

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] Information from Blue Mountains Fire Control Centre, Katoomba on Bush Fire Situation in the Blue Mountains Council area

2009-12-16T09:48:00.001+11:00

Information from Blue Mountains Fire Control Centre, Katoomba on Bush Fire Situation in the Blue Mountains Council area.

Issued at 0900hrs on 16^th December 2009

Grose Head South Fire

Current Situation

NSW Rural Fire Service, National Park & Wildlife Service and ACT firefighters continue to strengthen containment lines for the Grose Head South fire, in a remote area, 5 kilometres west of Yarramundi on Kariwoga Ridge south of the Grose River. The fire has burnt approximately 80 hectares of bushland in remote and rugged terrain. The fire is now contained and there is no threat to property. The fire danger rating for today is very high.

Yesterday, Remote Area Firefighters successfully worked on mopping up and working on containment lines, assisted by water bombing aircraft. They will be deployed onto the fire ground today to patrol the edge of the fire ground and mop up hot spots and smouldering trees ahead of forecast strong and erratic winds associated with thunderstorms this afternoon. Water bombing aircraft are continuing to support crews.

Heavy earth moving equipment will continue work today, clearing between the western side of Booker Road Hawkesbury Heights to the eastern side of the playing fields at St Columba's High School Winmalee as a precautionary measure as part of the overall containment strategy.

Tom Hunter Park, Faulconbridge

The air operations will continue to operate from Tom Hunter Park on Hunter Way, Faulconbridge. Residents around the park area will see aircraft and support vehicle movements around the area throughout today and the next few days. Tom Hunter Park will remain closed until further notice.

Advice

While there is no immediate threat to property, residents in the areas of Hawkesbury Heights, Bowen Mountain, Grose Vale, Grose Wold, Winmalee and Yarramundi should continue to monitor the situation. Residents should remain vigilant and follow your Bush Fire Survival Plan.

Residents should be prepared to implement their Bush Fire Survival Plans and stay informed of current fire activity by monitoring local media and regularly checking for updates on the RFS website or Information Line. If you are concerned about bush fire hazards on your property, or the property adjacent to you, the Rural Fire Service (RFS) can provide advice regarding preparing your property against bush fires and what you have to do in the event of a bush fire.

This advice is free and can be arranged by contacting your local RFS Fire Control Centre and speaking with one of the officers.

Weather Forecast

Today 16/12/09 – Cloudy at first, but clearing during the morning. NE winds to 35km/h. Maximum Temperature of 35 degrees and Minimum Relative Humidity of 28%.

Thursday 17/12/09 – Dry. W/NW winds to 30 km/h. Maximum Temperature near 40 degrees and Minimum Relative Humidity near 25%.

Friday 18/12/09 - Rain periods and chance of a thunderstorm. SE winds 25km/h. Maximum Temperature 25 degrees and Minimum Relative Humidity near 75%.

Saturday 19/12/09 – Dry. SE/SW winds 25km/h. Maximum Temperature 30 degrees and Minimum Relative Humidity near 30%

Information

National Parks and Council Reserve closures

http://www.bluemountains.rfs.nsw.gov.au/dsp_more_info.cfm?CON_ID=9270&CAT_ID=76

Bush Fire Survival Plan

If you live in or near the bush It is your responsibility to prepare yourself, your family and your home for the threat of bush fire. You need to make the decision to either Leave Early or Stay and Defend. Regardless of your decision you must prepare your property to give you, your family and your home the best chance of survival.

For information on obtaining and preparing a Bush Fire Survival Plan go to the RFS website at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

· Updates on this fire and the current and the Fire Danger Rating in your area are available at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au or by calling call 1800 NSW RFS (1800 679 737).

· For information on Neighbourhood Safer Places (NSP) go to www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

· For information in relation to bush fire hazards and preparing your property contact your local Rural Fire Brigade Station or your local NSW RFS Fire Control Centre.

· If you need to report a new fire or require urgent assistance, dial Triple Zero (000).

PREPARE. ACT. SURVIVE.

Authorised by Incident Controller Supt. Tom Shirt, Blue Mountains Fire Control Centre.

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

Inspector Paul McGrath
Learning & Development Officer
Blue Mountains District
NSW Rural Fire Service

Emergency Services Centre
Cnr Bathurst Rd & Valley Rd
KATOOMBA NSW 2780

Phone     02 4784 7444
Direct      02 4784 7419
Fax         02 4784 7461
Mobile    0414 822 159
Email: Paul.McGrath@rfs.nsw.gov.au

//// NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE........ for our community

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] Information from Blue Mountains Fire Control Centre, Katoomba on Bush Fire Situation in the Blue Mountains Council area.

2009-12-15T09:43:00.001+11:00

Information from Blue Mountains Fire Control Centre, Katoomba on Bush Fire Situation in the Blue Mountains Council area.

Issued at 1000hrs on 15^th December 2009

Grose Head South Fire

Current Situation

Favourable weather conditions today will assist NSW Rural Fire Service firefighters from Blue Mountains and National Parks & Wildlife Service to strengthen containment lines for the Grose Head South fire, in a remote area, 5 kilometres west of Yarramundi on Kariwoga Ridge south of the Grose River. The fire has burnt approximately 80 hectares of bushland in remote and rugged terrain. The fire is being controlled and there is no threat to property.

Yesterday’s low cloud and mist restricted operations allowing limited ground activity and no aerial operations but bought light showers and drizzle across the fire ground.

Currently there is no active fire along the edge of the fire ground. Remote Area Firefighters will again be deployed onto the fire ground today to patrol the edge of the fire ground and mop up hot spots and smoking trees. Water bombing aircraft have recommended work today with aircraft being be deployed to support crews.

Tom Hunter Park, Faulconbridge

The air operations base has moved to Tom Hunter Park on Hunter Way, Faulconbridge. Residents around the park area will see aircraft and support vehicle movements around the area throughout today and the next few days. Tom Hunter Park will remain closed until further notice.

Advice

Whilst weather conditions for today are mild, the forecasted weather conditions for Wednesday & Thursday will see a return of high temperatures with low humidity and strong north to north westerly winds. Residents should be prepared to implement their Bush Fire Survival Plans and stay informed of current fire activity by monitoring local media and regularly checking for updates on the RFS website or Information Line.

Weather Forecast

Today 15/12/09 – Cloudy with some drizzle or light showers early morning. E/NE winds to 30km/h. Maximum Temperature of 29 degrees and Minimum Relative Humidity of 31%.

Wednesday 16/12/09 - Fine. N/NE winds to 20km/h turning N/NW overnight. Maximum Temperature of 35 degrees and Minimum Relative Humidity about 30%.

Thursday 17/12/09 - Fine. NW winds to 30 to 40 km/h turning SW overnight. Maximum Temperature near 39 degrees and Minimum Relative Humidity near 20%

Friday 18/12/09 – Rain periods and chance of a thunderstorm. SE winds 15 to 25. Maximum Temperature 26 degrees and Minimum Relative Humidity near 75%

Information

Unless fire conditions substantially change these updates will only be issued once per day.

National Parks and Council Reserve closures

Bush Fire Survival Plan

For information on obtaining and preparing a Bush Fire Survival Plan go to the RFS website at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

· Updates on this fire and the current and the Fire Danger Rating in your area are available at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au or by calling call 1800 NSW RFS (1800 679 737).

· For information on Neighbourhood Safer Places (NSP) go to www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

· For information in relation to bush fire hazards and preparing your property contact your local Rural Fire Brigade Station or your local NSW RFS Fire Control Centre.

· If you need to report a new fire or require urgent assistance, dial Triple Zero (000).

PREPARE. ACT. SURVIVE.

Authorised by Incident Controller Supt. Tom Shirt, Blue Mountains Fire Control Centre.

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

Inspector Paul McGrath
Learning & Development Officer
Blue Mountains District
NSW Rural Fire Service

Emergency Services Centre
Cnr Bathurst Rd & Valley Rd
KATOOMBA NSW 2780

Phone     02 4784 7444
Direct      02 4784 7419
Fax         02 4784 7461
Mobile    0414 822 159
Email: Paul.McGrath@rfs.nsw.gov.au

//// NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE........ for our community

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] Information from Blue Mountains Fire Control Centre, Katoomba on Bush Fire Situation in the Blue Mountains Council area.

2009-12-14T10:10:00.000+11:00

Information from Blue Mountains Fire Control Centre, Katoomba on Bush Fire Situation in the Blue Mountains Council area.

Issued at 1000hrs on 14^th December 2009

Grose Head South Fire

Current Situation

Favourable weather conditions today and tomorrow will assist NSW Rural Fire Service firefighters from Blue Mountains and National Parks & Wildlife Service to strengthen containment lines for the Grose Head South fire, in a remote area, 5 kilometres west of Yarramundi on Kariwoga Ridge south of the Grose River. The fire has burnt approximately 70 hectares of bushland in remote and rugged terrain. The fire is being controlled and there is no threat to property.

Currently there is no active fire along the edge of the fire ground. Remote Area Firefighters will be deployed onto the fire ground today to patrol the edge of the fire ground and mop up hot spots and smoking trees. With the forecasted change in weather conditions, light rain has been falling on the fire ground overnight and this morning. The use of water bombing aircraft has been restricted due to low cloud and mist over the fire ground. If these conditions change, water bombing aircraft will be deployed to support crews on the fire ground and continue water bombing operations.

Tom Hunter Park, Faulconbridge

Advice

Whilst weather conditions for today and Tuesday are mild, the forecasted weather conditions for Wednesday & Thursday will see a return of high temperatures with low humidity and strong north to north westerly winds. Residents should be prepared to implement their Bush Fire Survival Plans and stay informed of current fire activity by monitoring local media and

regularly checking for updates on the RFS website or Information Line.

Weather Forecast

Today 14/12/09 - A few showers. E/SE winds to 30km/h. Maximum Temperature of 25 degrees and Minimum Relative Humidity of 50%.

Tuesday 15/12/09 - Mostly fine apart from a possible shower in the East. SE/NE winds to 20km/h. Maximum Temperature of 30 degrees. Minimum Relative Humidity about 40%.

Wednesday 16/12/09 - Dry. NE/NW winds to 20km/h. Maximum Temperature near 35 and Minimum Relative Humidity near 25%

Thursday 17/12/09 - Dry with increasing cloud. NW winds 35 to 45 km/h ahead of a late SW change. Maximum Temperature 39 degrees and Minimum Relative Humidity near 20%

Information

Unless fire conditions substantially change these updates will only be issued once per day.

National Parks and Council Reserve closures