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

Change in fire season for much of the Waikato

Change in fire season for much of the Waikato

21 April 2020

The fire seasons for much of the Waikato has changed from prohibited to either open or restricted.

An open fire season means fires can be lit without authorisation, while a restricted season means fires can be lit if a permit is obtained.

Areas now in an open season are:

Hauraki District South of Miranda

Waikato District South of Mangatangi, Pukekawa, and Waikaretu

Waipa District

Waitomo District

Otorohanga District

Matamata-Piako District

South Waikato District

Thames-Coromandel is now in restricted fire season. People will need to apply for a fire permit to light fires. For more information: www.checkitsalright.nz

Principal Rural Fire Officer Paul Shaw says while there’s a change in season, Fire and Emergency would prefer that people didn’t light fires at this time, for example rubbish and garden waste fires.

"Even if the fire is under control, the smoke often results in 111 calls which mean our firefighters need to deal with an avoidable call and risk exposure to COVID-19," he says.

"We are asking for your patience and understanding during these extraordinary times in our country and asking that you do not light any outdoor fires unless they are essential."

ENDS

For more information, please contact the Fire and Emergency New Zealand media team.

media@fireandemergency.nz

027 591 8837

Spokespeople also available in te reo.

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