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

Changes to fire and fireworks restrictions in Otago

Changes to fire and fireworks restrictions in Otago

10 April 2025

Fire and Emergency New Zealand has changed restrictions on outdoor fires and fireworks in parts of Otago from 8am on Thursday 10 April, until further notice.

The Lakes and Glendhu Bluffs zones move from a prohibited to a restricted fire season, which means people can light open air fires if they have a permit authorised by Fire and Emergency. People can apply for a permit at checkitsalright.nz.

The fireworks ban in the Lakes zone has also been revoked.

"Lower temperatures and increased dew over the last fortnight have reduced the fire risk in these areas," Acting Otago District Manager Craig Geddes says.

"This means there is less dry vegetation readily available to burn."

"However, fires can start and spread year-round in our District, so restrictions on fires are still necessary," he says.

"To apply for a fire permit and check the fire risk conditions in your area, go to checkitsalright.nz.

"You can also find advice on how to conduct your controlled burns safely on this website," Craig Geddes says.

Special risk zones will remain in a prohibited fire season. These areas are Queenstown, Lake Wānaka islands, Lake Wakatipu islands, Mt Iron and Albert Town reserve.

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