Our 3-Step Escape Plan

  • First Escape Route
  • Second Escape Route
  • Meeting Place
Notes

Use this space to note any additional information about your escape plan, i.e. who will assist

Your checklist

  • Get low

    Smoke is poisonous and more deadly than flames.

    If you breathe smoke for more than a few breaths it can kill you.

  • Be fast

    A house fire can kill you in less than three minutes.

    Don't spend time trying to save possessions.

  • Close doors

    A closed door buys you time.

    It slows down the spread of fire, giving you more time to get to safety.

  • Get out - stay out!

    People have died by going back into a fire.

    Don't leave the meeting place to go back inside for any reason.

Call emergency services as soon as you are out and safe. Ask for FIRE.

Clearly state your address and let the operator know it anyone is still inside or has not made it to the safe meeting place.

Emergency call 111 Emergency text 111
Fire & Emergency New Zealand

Bridge Hill fire update

Bridge Hill fire update

5 December 2024

Fire and Emergency is continuing to fight the large vegetation fire at Bridge Hill, SH73 near Craigieburn. 

The fire is approximately 140 hectares, but continuing to spread and has jumped SH73.

It is not contained or under control. Containment efforts have been hampered by high winds and extreme fire behaviour.

Incident Commander Brian Keown says three schools have now been evacuated from camps in the area as a precaution. Two were staying at the Environmental Education Centre, while the other one was at Forest Lodge. 

"All students are safe and well away from the fire," Brian Keown says.

"We currently have eight helicopters fighting the fire, with one more on the way, as well as 11 trucks, tankers and support vehicles.

"We are working extremely hard to get this fire contained.

"SH73 is currently closed and will be for some time.

"People should avoid the area and look to make alterative travel arrangements if they were planning to use this road today."

The next update will be approximately 1pm. 

 

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