Rural landholders are being urged to have their properties and bushfire survival plans in place with the declaration of the start of the Fire Danger Period for the Top End.

This declaration means you are required to have a permit to burn anywhere north of the 17th parallel of south latitude (approximately 50km north of Elliot) between 28 June 2021 and 30 November 2021. Failure to comply can result in substantial penalties.

Quotes by Bushfires NT Chief Fire Control Officer Andrew Turner

“Now is the time to make sure your property and family is prepared for this Fire Danger Period.

“This time of year is always busy for our brigades, and there is no guarantee we will be able to respond to every call which is why families need to have a fire management plan and a survival plan in place.

“This includes keeping fuel loads to a minimum around your property by clearing away dried grass, dead leaves and branches.

“Trim back trees that overhang structures and control or eradicate grassy weed species.

“Maintain a well-cut lawn around your home and install firebreaks that are free from slashed or dead material and don’t have any vegetation more than 50 millimetres high.

“Make sure you have plenty of water and the right equipment to put out a fire, if necessary.

“Also ensure your property is easily identifiable with a street and lot number visible on the front gate. Clearly visible signs are critical to help our firies find your home.

“We also urge the public to report illegal or suspicious activity in their community to police on 131 444 or anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.”

DEPWS Media Manager 0476 844 832