NSW: Firefighters brace for worsening conditions

AAP General News (Australia)
12-31-2001
NSW: Firefighters brace for worsening conditions

Firefighters are bracing for worsening conditions as they contend with fresh outbreaks
sparked by lightning strikes and arsonists.

The New South Wales bushfire crisis is showing no signs of easing but milder temperatures
and winds have allowed crews to backburn and put in containment lines around the most
threatening blazes.

About 100 fires are still burning statewide, with five new ones lit by arsonists yesterday
in the Cataract catchment area, north of Wollongong.

Premier BOB CARR and deputy police commissioner KEN MORONEY have lashed out at arsonists
and the premier says he'll consider longer jail terms.

Almost 40 blazes are believed to have been deliberately lit around the state, with
eight people charged with arson so far.

Firefighters have spent the past 72 hours on backburning and containment work with
the fires near Appin, Spencer and the Blue Mountains of most concern.

Mr CARR will tour the Shoalhaven area on the NSW south coast today.

A statewide fire ban remains in force, meaning any group planning New Years Eve fireworks
displays must receive an exemption.

AAP RTV sal/jtb

KEYWORD: BUSHFIRES NSW (SYDNEY)

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