Public reminded to take care with controlled burns

26 April 2024

Fire and Emergency New Zealand is reminding people across Hawke’s Bay to take extra care when undertaking controlled burns.

Yesterday, crews were called to an incident in Waiwhare near Napier, after fire spread from a controlled burn. Helicopters remained at the scene today working to extinguish the fire.

Acting District Manager Jason Hill says while the owner followed correct protocols, it was a good reminder of just how easily burn offs can get out of control, and why people should remain vigilant when burning off paddocks or vegetation.

"People must exercise caution and ensure they are following safe burning practices," Jason Hill says.

"Check the weather conditions before you burn. If you’re in any doubt, then hold off until more favourable conditions are present.

"It’s also important to make sure you have suitable means to contain and extinguish the fire if needed, for example a water hose, water sprayer, shovel and dirt to smother, or a mechanical digger on site."

Jason Hill says if you’ve already completed a burn, it is important to continue to check it as the chance of reignition is high.

"Burying embers under dirt is the right thing to do but may not extinguish the fire. If winds were to pick up, this can disturb the soil, pick the embers up, and carry them in the wind to other ignition sources."

"Finally, it is important to let your neighbours know when you are going to burn," he says.

"If the fire is going to burn overnight, for multiple days, or if you think that people would be concerned seeing a column of smoke, contact Fire and Emergency to tell us about your plans.

"This will reduce the chance of us dispatching crews when they don’t need to be. "

The public can head to www.checkitsalright.nz for further fire safety information.