VOLUNTEER firefighters in Lithgow, Oberon and Bathurst are being urged to be be "smart with water use" and to consider "dry firefighting strategies" due to the ongoing drought.
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Currently 100 per cent of the Central West is drought affected, while in the Central Tablelands the figure is 98.5 per cent.
The NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) issued a statewide alert to all of its members on Tuesday afternoon which said the drought had had an impact on the ability to fight fires.
"Brigades are being encouraged to be smart with water use and consider different firefighting strategies if required," the alert stated.
"[With] water restrictions in force in many areas across the state, it's important that brigades adhere to restrictions and limit the use of town or drinking water for non-essential activities.
"Where appropriate, consideration should be given for alternate tactics including dry firefighting strategies and heavy plant engagement."
The fires could be a little bit larger because of this strategy.
- NSW Rural Fire Service Chifley/Lithgow Team zone operational officer Brett Taylor
In the RFS Chifley/Lithgow Team zone, operational officer Brett Taylor said due to the lack of water firefighters must adopt traditional methods of firefighting.
"We'll be using dozers or graders to create significant containment lines so that the fire comes to us and burns itself out," he said.
"The fires could be a little bit larger because of this strategy."
Mr Taylor said firefighting strategies will also depend on where the fire is, what vegetation is burning and whether there are any structures, assets of people nearby.
Water can be used, but he said its conservation was absolutely vital.
"It's all about saving a resource so it's there if you do need it," he said.
The lack of water in dams and rivers will also impact the capability and turnaround time of water-bombing helicopters during a blaze.
Mr Taylor said pilots may have to fly further away to find enough water to scoop into the aircraft's large bucket.
Residents who live on properties or near the bush are encouraged to keep yards near their house well maintained.
"It's about keeping your lawns low, your gutters clean, no wood piles and that flammable objects are away from your house," Mr Taylor said.
"It'll make your property an easier property to defend [in a fire]."
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