The NSW Rural Fire Service has just declared a Total Fire Ban for the Hawkesbury, for Friday, December 2.
This means no fires may be lit in the open and all fire permits are suspended during the period of the ban, though gas and electric barbecues may be used provided certain conditions are met. Find the total fire ban rules and a map of fire ban areas on the website www.rfs.nsw.gov.au.
The ban also covers the rest of greater Sydney, greater Hunter, the Northern Slopes and North Western regions due to forecasted hot and windy conditions.
The ban will start at midnight tonight, December 1.
The RFS said under severe and very high fire conditions you should follow your Bush Fire Survival Plan and remain vigilant; keep informed by listening to local radio, watching news broadcasts and monitoring website www.rfs.nsw.gov.au.