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

Lower fire risk across Mid-South Canterbury prompts fire season changes

Lower fire risk across Mid-South Canterbury prompts fire season changes

16 April 2024

All fire zones in Mid-South Canterbury which are currently in a restricted fire season will move to an open fire season, and all those in a prohibited fire season will move to a restricted fire season from 5am Tuesday 16 April, until further notice.

Inland high-country areas will all move from a prohibited fire season to a restricted season. This means no open-air fires can be legally lit unless a fire permit has been applied for and approved by Fire and Emergency New Zealand.

In addition, the coastal and foothills of Mid-South Canterbury all move from a restricted to an open fire season from 8am Tuesday 16 April.

Announcing the fire season changes, Senior Advisor Risk Reduction Don Geddes says significant rainfall over the previous week has reduced the fire risk and, as we are now well into autumn, there is little likelihood of the risk escalating again.

“While the fire risk has reduced, people still need to be mindful when lighting any fires outdoors with a permit,” he says.

"It is important people are aware they still must have the necessary permissions and ensure any fires are kept well controlled and safe.

"Always visit checkitsalright.nz before lighting and avoid lighting fires during or ahead of strong winds."

As colder weather approaches, now is the time to follow simple fire safety tips to help keep you safe.

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