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

Firefighters attending 250% more rubbish fires under lockdown

Firefighters attending 250% more rubbish fires under lockdown

30 April 2020

Rubbish fires have more than doubled during the lockdown period compared to previous years and Fire and Emergency is asking people to stop burning.

National Manager Community Readiness and Recovery Steve Turek says Fire and Emergency will respond to all emergencies but is asking people to help us by doing their bit to minimise the risk of fire, and the number of avoidable call outs for our firefighters.

“Between 23 March and 22 April we responded to nearly 750 preventable rubbish fires - more than double the number for the same period last year when we responded to nearly 390 rubbish fires.”

“Even if a fire is permitted and under control, the smoke often generates a 111 call from well-meaning members of the public.”

“Every time this happens, our firefighters need to leave their isolation bubble and risk potential exposure to COVID-19.

“During Alert Level 3 New Zealanders are asked to be vigilant and continue following the Government’s advice to keep themselves and others safe.”

“Please consider alternatives to lighting fires if you can and hold off from rubbish fires, garden waste fires, and controlled burn offs, unless it is for essential industry (for example crop farmers).

If you think your fire is essential and you’ve applied for a permit, please be patient. During COVID-19 Alert level 3 it may take longer than usual for permit applications to be processed.

“Help us to keep you and our firefighters safe during these unprecedented times by not lighting any outdoor fires.

People can find out more at www.checkitsalright.nz

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