Last week, while I was packing, I noticed how cool It was for Summer, I even thought we missed the worst of it.

I was completely wrong.

Last Friday, Move Day, got right up to 38 degrees Celsius. The heatwave continued over the weekend through to Monday and I can honestly say it was brutal.

Moving house and cleaning in that oppressive heat was insane. Something I don't ever want to do ever again.

Today, I'm happy to say it's a really nice 30 degrees and if this week's weather forecast is correct, we won't be experiencing anything above 32 degrees for the next week. 🙌🙌

Now why am I boring you with the weather?

This just flew past.

I'm pretty sure that's "Elvis" the water bombing helicopter coming back, probably, from Wentworth Falls.

THE FIRE BAN

NSW has been on and off Total Fire bans for the last week, understandable considering the intense heat and dry conditions.

The other night, some special snowflake decided to let off some Fireworks at Wentworth Falls, causing a bushfire.

Although 'fireworks' is listed as exempt from Total Fire bans, though I suspect this is only under special circumstances, I feel if one lives in an areas surrounded by bushland, and it's been a scorcher of a week, they need to be more mindful of their surroundings and the weather!

It really doesn't take much on an already hot day for a fire to start.

We had thunderstorms yesterday and the lightning caused spot fires throughout the mountains.

This is a screenshot from the Fires Near Me app, as you can see there are multiple fires burning in the Blue Mountains at the moment. (source)

Total Fire Ban rules

No fires during a Total Fire Ban. A total fire ban means no fires out in the open. A total fire ban helps limit the potential of fires developing.

During a Total Fire Ban you cannot light, maintain or use a fire in the open, or to carry out any activity in the open that causes, or is likely to cause, a fire.

No general purpose hot works, such as welding or gas cutting can be done in the open.

The NSW RFS strongly recommends you reconsider activities such as such using a tractor or slashing, to help reduce the chance of a fire starting on your property. Under certain conditions, the NSW RFS may issue a Cease Harvest request. (source)

Total Fire Ban exceptions

· Electric Barbecue
· Gas Barbecue
· Emergency Infrastructure services
· Bee Hive Smokers
· Mining Operations
· Fireworks

Check Government Gazette to see if there is a standard exemption that applies to your situation. If not you may need to apply for an exemption.

What happens if you get caught lighting a fire during a Total Fire Ban day?

Lighting a fire on a day of Total Fire Ban attracts an on the spot fine of $2200. If the matter goes to court, you could be subject to a fine of up to $5500 and/or 12 months gaol.

Penalties for a fire that escapes and damages or destroys life, property or the environment can attract much greater fines and gaol terms with maximums at $132,000 and/or 14 years gaol. (source)

They're serious about Fire Safety and they should be.

The last major bush fire up here was in October 2013, which burned from the 16th to the 29th, destroying 196 homes and damaging 130.

People up here still talk about it and those who could rebuild have and are still here.

I remember my old neighbor from 2 houses ago telling me about it and how they had every RFS team in Australia at the top of the street. He didn't even leave his house. He watched the action from his backyard.

His number 1 tip to me regarding bush fires?
Make sure you're insured.

And I'm very happy to say we are. Wether we are in good hands with ANZ, I don't know. Everyone up here swears by NRMA, as they were very prompt with support and assistance during the 2013 fires, while other smaller companies dropped customers.

Lingering thoughts?

· Don't be a douche during Total Fire Ban days. Lives are at risk.
· 30 degrees seems so much cooler after days of 38 degrees.
· Make sure you have home and contents insurance, especially if you live in an area like mine where natural disasters are known to strike.
· 35 more days until Summer is officially over. I can't wait!

Wherever you are, please be mindful of your surroundings and the conditions. Have a plan in case of an emergency. Best to be safe than sorry.

💗 Arly