WITH fire season approaching, the Rural Fire Service has urged residents to be aware of hazards before lighting up.

Tweed RFS operational services co-ordinator Matthew Inwood said fire safety starts with a bush-fire survival plan.

"People need to make sure there are good clear areas around their home," Mr Inwood said.

"There shouldn't be long grass, piles of timber next to the house or overhanging trees."

He said it is crucial to clear land around other assets such as sheds and to clean out gutters which collect fast-burning fine fuels.

"Anyone planning to do a hazard-reduction burn needs to make sure they have the proper safety measures in place," Mr Inwood said.

He said it is crucial to clear land around other assets such as sheds and to clean out gutters which collect fast-burning fine fuels.

"It's extremely important to have bare-earth fire breaks in place.

"The conditions of a fire permit apply to all burns, 24/7, 365 days a year," Mr Inwood said.

Mr Inwood said neighbours must always be notified, even when a road or river separates the properties.

He said anyone who lights a fire is legally responsible for ensuring it does not get out of control or escape the property in which it was lit.

Since 2006, smoke alarms have been legally required in all residential buildings.

Mr Inwood says people should still be vigilant and replace alarm batteries at least once a year.

"They really do save families," Mr Inwood said.

"The most important thing is that you call 000 if you see a fire."

"Then you must enact the Bush Fire Survival Plan."

Those planning a haz- ard-reduction burn should notify the NSW Rural Fire Service on 02 6626 7147 at least 24 hours in advance of lighting the fire.

The Bush Fire Survival Plan can be accessed at rfs.nsw.gov.au