NSW Rural Fire Service announces Total Fire Ban in Cessnock on Saturday, October 26, with severe fire conditions forecast

A total fire ban was also in place on Friday, and will continue on Saturday, when severe fire conditions are forecast in Cessnock.

The NSW RFS urges residents in severe fire danger areas to follow their bushfire survival plans and remain vigilant.

Keep informed by listening to local radio, watching television news broadcasts and monitoring www.rfs.nsw.gov.au.

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

Works like welding or any activity that produces a spark or flame are also not allowed in the open.

Potential bushfire damage is increased on very high to extreme fire days, when the weather is very hot, dry and windy.

A total fire ban attempts to reduce the risk of fires damaging or destroying life, property and the environment.

You can use an electric barbecue 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 barbecue if 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 barbecue is within 20 metres of a permanent private dwelling such as a home; or the barbecue is within a designated picnic area and the appliance is approved by Council, National Parks or State Forest.

A barbecue 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.

Permits are suspended on days of total fire ban. Permits may resume after the total fire ban is lifted, as long as the permit hasn't expired.