FIRES continue to burn at Mortons Creek and Ballengarra, barely 40 kilometres from Port Macquarie.
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Although contained and being monitored by the Rural Fire Service (RFS), it is a reminder for all land owners to be vigilant with back burning and bonfires at this time of the year.
Superintendent Kam Baker, district manager of Mid Coast RFS said the fires are behind identified containment lines.
"There is some internal burning but crews are patrolling them on a regular basis," he said.
"Under quite windy conditions there were a number of properties that were under threat early in the piece but were protected by RFS and fire rescue crews."
He confirmed fire investigation is currently looking to determine how those fires were started.
While September and October is classified as fire season, the cold and frosty weather is curing grassland and creating harsh conditions that can ignite a spark quickly.
Under quite windy conditions there were a number of properties that were under threat ...
- Supt Kam Baker, RFS
"Fires can spread quickly because of that, especially on windy days," he said.
"I wouldn't say fire season has come early. I would say we are in a normal cycle and that is why it is so important for people to follow the rules.
"While people want to burn off they must have the right measures in place to contain the fire.
"There are the odd occasions where people start a back burn or a fire and then leave it unattended. Given that wind can change so quickly it is so dangerous to leave a fire."
Supt Baker said normal August westerly wind season is near, meaning it is even more important for people to monitor the weather.
Fire permits are not currently required to start a fire on your property, however you must notify neighbours and your closest fire centre.
It is vitally important that all homes have a bush fire survival plan in place. For more information on being fire ready CLICK HERE