The drop in temperature has seen an increase in the number of backyard and rubbish fires reported.

From Wangi Wangi to Nelson Bay and Cessnock to Carrington, local crews responded to more than 24 incidents.

There are certain circumstances where backyard burning or open fires are allowed. These are usually restricted to barbecues and camping.

The burning of wood, vegetation and rubbish in open fires and incinerators is a major cause of air pollution.

Check with your council to see what is permissible in your area.

Reflecting firefighters' diverse range of skills, crews in the Hunter were called out on numerous occasions to assist our fellow first responders from NSW Ambulance.

Firefighters from Lambton, Stockton, Merewether, Wallsend, Belmont and Carrington all responded throughout the week to gain access to locked premises, where the occupants were unable to answer the door through injury or illness.

Once entry was made paramedics could readily treat the patients.

Crews were also required to assist paramedics at various incidents with removing patients from houses and unit blocks.

Narrow hallways and doors make it difficult to use a stretcher.

In these cases firefighters use different techniques and equipment to assist in carrying patients to more accessible locations.