The NSW Rural Fire Service will conduct two hazard reduction burns in the northern Illawarra on Saturday.
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One operation will cover a 15-hectare area north-west of Garrawarra Hospital and is expected to take most of the day.
‘‘This controlled burn will help protect properties and assets in the Garrawarra Hospital area and also assist our firefighters to control any future bushfires in the area,’’ Illawarra Zone manager Superintendent Richard Cotterill said.
The RFS has also planned a three-hectare hazard reduction burn on private properties along Otford Rd, Otford, on Saturday.
About 25 RFS members will be present during the hazard reduction operation.
“Hazard reduction is a vital element in helping to reduce the intensity of bushfires,” Supt Cotterill said.
‘‘These operations are an important part of our Bushfire Risk Management Plan for the area and there will be further controlled burns in the Illawarra zone in the near future.’’
Supt Cotterill advised residents in the area to keep doors and windows closed, remove washing from clothes lines and ensure pets are in a protected area.
Motorists in the area should slow down when driving through smoke, keep the car windows up and turn the headlights on.
