The NSW Rural Fire Service is urging residents and landholders to notify fire agencies before carrying out hazard reductions or pile burns.
The RFS online portal has made it easier than ever for residents to give notice and is accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
RFS operational officer Jodie Graham explained that by notifying their neighbours and using the online portal, residents and landowners could help avoid unnecessary emergency calls.
“Over coming months, many landholders may take the opportunity to burn off — but they are responsible for ensuring it is done safely and let us and their neighbours know," Ms Graham said.
She emphasised that even outside the official bushfire danger period, landholders needed permits and permissions, and had to give 24-hour notice to neighbours and fire authorities.
The online tool flags total fire bans or restrictions and advises against burning if conditions are unsuitable.
Garry Grant from the NSW Farmers Rural Affairs Committee emphasised the importance of safe and legal fuel load reduction.
“Before lighting any fire, you need to have adequately prepared fire breaks and have firefighting equipment on hand to ensure the fire does not escape,” Mr Grant said.
To notify of your intent to burn off, use the online burn notification tool at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/notify
Residents and landholders can still contact their local Fire Control Centre to notify the NSW RFS if they wish.