AN upcoming hazard reduction burn being undertaken through almost 100 hectares of bushland will help keep Meadow Flat and Tarana residents safe into the future.
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With favourable conditions forecast, NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) crews will begin burning off from midday on Friday.
The controlled burn will be conducted in the vicinity of Mount Haven Estate in Meadow Flat and it is expected to run until 6pm on Tuesday, April 30.
The 96.38 hectare burn-off will have a proposed perimeter of 4.24 kilometres so some smoke is expected for nearby residents and motorists.
NSW RFS Chifley/Lithgow operational officer Brett Taylor said local residents should keep doors and windows closed if there is smoke, remove washing from the line and keep pets in a protected area.
"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," he said.
MAP: The proposed 96.38 hectare burn-off area at Meadow Flat
"Asthma sufferers need to follow their Asthma Action Plan and take their relieving medication where necessary. If symptoms get worse, asthma sufferers need to seek medical advice.
"Motorists in the area should slow down and take extra care if driving through smoke, keep windows up and turn their headlights on."
Mr Taylor said controlled burns were an important part of preparing for the next bushfire season.
"Hazard reduction is a vital element in helping to reduce the intensity of bushfires," he said.
"This controlled burn will help protect properties and assets in the Meadow Flat and Tarana areas and also assist firefighters to control any future bush fires.
"This operation is an important part of our local Bush Fire Risk Management Plan."
Hazard reduction is a vital element in helping to reduce the intensity of bushfires.
- NSW Rural Fire Service Chifley/Lithgow operational officer Brett Taylor
The success of any hazard reduction burn depends largely on the weather and favourable conditions are forecast for this weekend, Mr Taylor said
"Each year there is only a small window of opportunity where weather conditions are conducive to completing controlled burns," he said.
"For a hazard reduction burn to be successful we require the right wind and temperature conditions and for ground fuels to be sufficiently dry."
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People should only call triple-0 if they see an unattended fire.
"Please don't call just to report smoky conditions. Save triple-0 for emergencies," Mr Taylor said.
More information can be found on the NSW Rural Fire Service website or download the Fires Near Me app.