Rural
13 April, 2026
Hazard reduction burns planned for this week across the regions
There are several hazard reduction burns planned across the regions this week, with the work being conducted in partnership between a number of organisations, including Water NSW, Forestry NSW, National Parks and Wildlife (NPWS) and the Rural Fire Service (RFS).
UPDATE: The RFS has since advised that the Belanglo State Forest hazard reduction burn has been postponed to a later date.
There are several hazard reduction burns planned across the regions this week, with the work being conducted in partnership between a number of organisations, including Water NSW, Forestry NSW, National Parks and Wildlife (NPWS) and the Rural Fire Service (RFS).
The Brethren Point burn is 76 hectares in size in Belanglo State Forest and commenced today (Monday April 13) and will continue throughout the week. This is being conducted by Forestry NSW.
A major burn is taking place just north of Yerrinbool, known as the Nepean West Hazard Reduction Burn.
It is 1,079.48 hectares in size and is being conducted by Water NSW and NPWS.
Drivers on the nearby M31 Hume Highway are advised to watch out for any smoke emanating from this burn, as it could decrease visibility.
Several burns are also taking place around Cordeaux Dam this week, with visibility potentially also affected along Picton Rd from smoke.
A small burn (3.94 hectares) is also taking place in the Mount Alexandra Reserve at Willow Vale until tomorrow, conducted by the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) - Crown Lands and the RFS.
As with all hazard reduction burns, the advice given to homeowners and those with asthma is as follows:
Keep doors and windows closed to prevent smoke entering homes;
Keep outdoor furniture under cover to prevent ember burns;
Retract pool covers to prevent ember damage;
Remove washing from clotheslines;
Ensure pets have a protected area;
Vehicles must slow down, keep windows up, turn headlights on;
Sightseers must keep away from burns for their own safety; and
If you have asthma or a lung condition, reduce outdoor activities if smoke levels are high and if shortness of breath or coughing develops, take your reliever medicine or seek medical advice. More info is available on the Asthma Australia website.
And for further information on any other hazard reduction burns taking place in your area, visit the NSW Rural Fire Service page at https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/hazard-reductions.
Read More: Yanderra, Yerrinbool, Renwick, Southern Highlands, Wollondilly