A Total Fire Ban has been declared for the ACT for Sunday amid dangerous fire weather conditions and forecast extreme heat.

This is the second Total Fire Ban of the summer, the first was on January 10.

Sunday’s ban runs from 12am to 11.59pm. The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting a high of 39C for Canberra.

Emergency Services say elevated fire danger across the territory means any fire that starts is likely to spread rapidly and be difficult to control.

ACT Rural Fire Service Chief Officer Rohan Scott said firefighters were prepared to respond if a fire breaks out over the long weekend, but stressed the importance of community co-operation.

“Community co-operation with the Total Fire Ban restrictions is crucial for everyone’s safety,” he said, urging people to take extra care when parking in grassed areas, mowing lawns, or travelling through remote or forested locations.

Under the Total Fire Ban, it is an offence to light, maintain or use a fire in the open air unless an exemption has been issued. High-risk activities such as welding, grinding, soldering, gas cutting, and the use of slashers and harvesting machinery in rural areas are also prohibited.

Gas or electric cooking appliances may still be used under strict conditions. Barbecues must be under constant adult supervision, kept clear of flammable materials, and have a fire extinguisher or continuous water supply available. Electric barbecues in parks and reserves, including the National Arboretum and urban parks, will remain available, while all gas barbecues will be turned off.

The ACT Parks and Conservation Service has closed several sites across the territory for the duration of the ban. All ACT campgrounds remain open except the Canberra Centenary Trail Northern Border Campsite.

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