A small grass fire broke out near Jack Ward Drive north of Harden on Wednesday in a timely reminder of the condition of the growth around some properties and the dry undergrowth.
Many people are looking out their windows at green grassy hills at the moment, but what lies beneath can often be different.
Station Commander Wal Leonow told the Times, “A couple of concerned residents rang me and I jumped in the ute and went down there and realised that it was heading towards sheds, so I called my fire truck and a couple of RFS units and then we called in two additional RFS units just for water.
“We sourced a water hydrant from near one of the sheds which was utilised and our pump ran off it to do property protection and the RFS utilised that hydrant to fill it up afterwards.
“This time of year permits are required as things can quickly turn into a world of hurt.
It is believed the fire was burning in a drum and an ember got out and with the breeze it got away.
“Even though the grass was green, there was a heap of dead stuff underneath it and that is what got going.
“It got a bit of size about it and then that generates heat and then the wind pushed it along and away it went.
“It burned a couple of acres.
“Thanks to the RFS and the town brigades who attended.
“It is important that residents don’t go looking to see what is happening when there is a fire as they run the risk of getting injured.
“In the event of a fire unless you directly have livestock or property at risk, onlookers are asked to stay away as they interfere with the Brigades trying to do their job.
“Even though this one wasn’t a fast moving grass fire we had to pull it up as it would have got into one of the sheds.
“In the event of a fire that is running hot and quick, we have to look out for ourselves and what we are doing, we can’t be watching out for other people just sight-seeing as it becomes a danger for them.
“Fire season will be here before we know it as things are drying off very quickly.
“Fire permits will not be issued in town and the Rural Fire Services can be contacted if you are out of the 60km zone.
