Out of control bush fire burns south on Old Maitland Road, Cessnock

Previously

• Properties along Old Maitland Rd should prepare now.
• Check and follow your Bush Fire Survival Plan. If you do not have a plan, decide what you will do if the situation changes. Leaving early is your safest option.
• Fire may impact on your property. Make your final preparations now.
• Fill buckets, sinks and bath tubs with water ready to put out spot fires
• Block downpipes and fill your gutters with water to help stop burning embers. Do not get on the roof.
• Remove items which can burn from around your home, such as furniture and door mats.
• If you have firefighting equipment, get it ready now.
• Put on protective clothing made of natural fibres that covers all of your skin. Wear sturdy shoes. Have plenty of drinking water available.
• If you are not prepared, your safest option is to leave early.
• For residents in the vicinity of Quarry Rd, Lavender St and Tunnel Rd, Cessnock, monitor conditions. Know what you will do if the situation changes.

• If the fire impacts, seek shelter in a solid structure such as a house to protect yourself from the heat of the fire.
• Bring pets indoors and restrain them, close all doors and windows and turn off air conditioners, keep water running if possible.
• Shelter in a room on the other side of the building from the approaching fire, and one that has water and a clear exit out of the house.
• Keep moving away from the fire if possible and if your building catches fire, go to an area within the building which has already burnt.
• Monitor both inside and outside for small fires and burning embers and turn sprinklers on if you have them.
• Be careful outdoors after the fire has passed as trees can be unstable and fall.
• If your life is at risk, call Triple Zero (000).

• Stay up to date on bush fires in your area by checking Fires Near Me, the NSW RFS website, listening to your local radio station, or by calling the NSW RFS Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737.
• If you have a respiratory condition and may be affected by smoke, activate your health management plan and seek medical advice if necessary. Take precautions, such as staying indoors and closing windows.
• For information on road closures, check Live Traffic NSW.
• Monitor weather conditions and weather warnings at Bureau of Meteorology.

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