Authorities are warning Top End residents to stay vigilant as the bushfire season ramps up, with firies warning this season has been worse than previous years.
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According to Assistant Chief Fire Officer Joshua Fischer, the NT Fire and Rescue Service have attended 246 wildfires across the Top End since June 28.
"That's an increase of 50 to 60 more wildfires compared with what we have seen over the last couple of years," Mr Fischer said.
"The Top End wildfires this year have been fuelled by the high levels of growth following the increased rainfall we experienced through the wet season. This growth presents a significant challenge for landowners and firefighters because fires can easily start and move quickly, often catching people off guard.
Mr Fischer said fire conditions are expected to worsen next month.
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Fire weather conditions will worsen through August and it's important that property owners have a bushfire survival plan in place and it's up-to-date," said Mr Fischer.
"There is still opportunity for property owners to do basic tasks to keep their property maintained, like keeping their lawns cut and clearing any overhanging trees or leaf litter.
He said around rural property owners have been issued fines for not being compliant for maintaining firebreaks or having an accumulation of flammable material.
"It's important for people to realise that they're not only putting their lives and the lives of their loved ones at risk, they're also putting our community and firefighters at risk," he said.
"Landowners or occupiers can visit the NTPFES website for more information on preparing your property for the bushfire season, or better yet, speak with the local volunteers in your area. They know the risks in the area and they're a great asset to our community."
It comes after Bushfires NT called on the NT Government to move the upcoming cracker night to the wet season because of bushfire concerns.
Chief Minister Michael Gunner announced earlier this month that cracker night Cracker Night, when Territorians can legally blow up fireworks, had been rescheduled to August 29 following a postponement due to the NT's coronavirus outbreak.
Bushfires NT chief fire control officer Andrew Turner told ABC Darwin that the day should be moved to the wet season to mitigate the risk of a fire.
"I think there's a huge amount of risk that needs to be considered," Mr Turner said.
"I personally think that there's a perfect time for Territory Day and that would be when it's raining.
"My vote is for much later in the year, rather than any closer to the date we've got now."
Katherine Town Council declined to comment on the date of Cracker Night as they have not yet discussed the matter.
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