THE NSW Rural Fire Service last week suspended issuing fire permits in Armidale, Guyra, Uralla and Walcha.
“With forecast hot, dry and windy conditions, including an extended period without significant rain, permits have been suspended,” Superintendent Steve Mepham said.
“The decision to suspend permits is all about safety, however it is recognised that in certain cases permits may be required for public safety or essential business continuity reasons.”
Superintendent Mepham, who is the zone manager for the New England RFS zone, said people under exceptional circumstances could contact the Armidale Fire Control Centre to obtain a permit.
“The decision to suspend permits does not come lightly and I understand that it will cause inconveniences for a number of people,” he said.
“I apologise for this, but the decision has been made in the interest of keeping our community of New England safe.”
