While the danger period officially ends on March 31, Armidale Fire Brigade Station Officer Steven McWhirter said winter brought its own threats.

“The risk with wood fires is of course houses catching fire,” he said.

“What we need to prepare for coming up to winter is that our fireplaces and our chimneys are in good condition.

“It is important that they are well maintained and possibly cleaned by a professional.”

Mr McWhirter also said changes to fire permits would come into effect.

In most cases fire permits are not needed for back burning from April 1 – unless a fire is likely to be dangerous to a building.

But not all areas will be exempt.

The NSW RFS have extended the statutory Bush Fire Danger Period in the Southern Tablelands area due to continuing hot and dry conditions.

Despite devastating bush fires across state, Armidale stayed around high and severe for fire danger throughout the summer months.

“I think this season was pretty mild for the Armidale Fire Brigade,” Mr McWhirter said.

Checking smoke alarms was also on the list during the changing period. 

Mr McWhirter said, with the end of daylight saving on April 2, Fire and Rescue NSW were encouraging people to test their smoke alarm when changing their clocks.

This year the messages for householders are to test each smoke alarm by pressing and holding the test button for five seconds.

Replace batteries every 12 months and to vacuum dust off alarms at least every six months.

And finally, to replace smoke alarms every 10 years, or earlier if specified by the manufacturer.

The statutory Bush Fire Danger Period will begin again on October 1.

For more about fire permits in NSW visit www.rfs.nsw.gov.au.

To find out more about Armidale Regional Council’s air quality and wood smoke policy visit their website at www.armidale.nsw.gov.au.