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

Kirwee fire update #4

Kirwee fire update #4

5 February 2024

The fire at Kirwee has been contained with no loss of buildings or livestock.

Fire and Emergency Incident Controller Dave Berry says that seven helicopters and eight crews of firefighters are working on the fire today, supported by heavy machinery.

An aerial inspection this morning confirmed that there was had been no buildings damaged or livestock caught up in the fire, which has burned 80 hectares of pine plantation, scrub and some farmland beside the Waimakariri River.

Last night an estimated 10 properties on Old West Coast Road were evacuated as a precaution, while several other households self-evacuated.

This morning Fire and Emergency will provide an update for the evacuated residents at a community meeting in Kirwee at 11am. The meeting is at the Kirwee Community Hall.

Dave Berry says that today’s hot and windy weather will create extreme fire behaviour if any new fires start. He asks everyone in Canterbury to take great care with any activities that could cause any sparks and start another fire.

Back to news hub