So, it appears pretty obvious on a surface level, but are we all 100 per cent clear and up to date on what it means; total fire ban?

A total fire ban means no fires out in the open. A total fire ban helps limit the potential of fires developing.

During a total fire ban you cannot light, maintain or use a fire in the open, or to carry out any activity in the open that causes, or is likely to cause, a fire.

General purpose hot works, such as welding, grinding or gas cutting or any activity that produces a spark or flame, are not to be undertaken in the open.

The NSW RFS strongly recommends you reconsider activities such as such using a tractor or slashing, to help reduce the chance of a fire starting on your property. Under certain conditions, the NSW RFS may issue a Harvest Safety Alert.

Total fire bans are declared because bush fires are more likely to spread and cause damage on days when the weather is very hot, dry and windy. These are usually on days when the fire danger rating is Extreme or Catastrophic. People all across NSW are currently under an extreme fire rating.

You can use an electric barbeque for cooking as long as it is under the direct control of a responsible adult, who is present at all times while it is operating, and no combustible material is allowed within two metres at any time it is operating.

You can use a gas barbeque under the following conditions:

• It is under the direct control of a responsible adult, who is present at all times while it is operating;
• No combustible material is allowed within two metres at any time it is operating;
• You have an immediate and continuous supply of water; and
• The barbeque is within 20 metres of a permanent private dwelling such as a home; or
• The barbeque is within a designated picnic area and the appliance is approved by Council, National Parks or State Forest.

A barbeque or wood fire pizza oven which uses solid fuel, such as wood, charcoal or heat beads, cannot be used outside during a total fire ban.

Fire permits are suspended during a total fire ban. Permits may be issued or used after the total fire ban is lifted, as long as the permit hasn't expired.

We all want to be part of the solution, not the problem. Stay informed, stay up to date on what it all means and what to do, including downloading the Hazards Near Me app on Apple Store or Google Play, and take five minutes to read up on the Rural Fire Service website at https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/

• Stay up to date during the bushfire danger period and when there is local bushfire activity:
• Hazards Near Me app – download the app and set up a watch zone for your home and school
• Live Traffic NSW
• local radio, TV, newspaper and your local ABC
• In an emergency call Triple Zero (000).