Forestry Corporation of NSW is reminding people to avoid closed forests due to risks from bushfire damage and falling trees.

Fire damaged forests are dangerous places and should be avoided, said Forestry Corporation Production and Stewardship Supervisor Billie-Jo Brown.

“Over the last weekend we’ve seen many people driving around closed State forests, taking photos and collecting firewood,” Mrs Brown said.

“We can’t understate how dangerous burnt forests are, and urge people to avoid these areas until reopened.

“There are many dangerous standing trees, much fallen debris and log bridges are burnt.”

Forestry Corporation crews are busy working through burnt forests to repair damage and make forests again safe for visitors.

“We ask that forest visitors be patient with us, as we work to make the forests safe once again,” Mrs Brown said.

“Many of our forest roads, bridges and pipework have been extensively damaged by fire.

“Heavy rain will also see some roads slump and become even more dangerous.

“As we repair infrastructure, remove dangerous trees and make our forests safe for visitors again, we ask people to check for forest closures before setting out on trips.”

The State forests closures list is available at www.forestry.corporation.com.au.

Media contact: Rod Campbell