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.

Fire & Emergency New Zealand

Fireworks ban in Mackenzie Basin

Fireworks ban in Mackenzie Basin

Fire and Emergency New Zealand has banned the use of fireworks in the Mackenzie Basin for the summer.

The ban comes into effect at 6pm 24 December and runs through until 31 March 2021.

Section 52 of the Fire and Emergency Act allows Fire and Emergency to restrict activities that may start or cause the spread of fire.

The prohibition order includes Omarama, but not Otematata and covers the rest of the Mackenzie Basin to the north.

Acting Principal Rural Fire Officer Don Geddes says the area has already had two major fires at Lakes Pukaki and Ōhau this season.

"We have very dry conditions around the Mackenzie Basin and the recent fires showed how quickly fire can spread in this area," Don Geddes says.

"In extreme conditions, it only takes a spark to start a devastating wildfire. That spark can come from a firework or a campfire, a gas cooker, a charcoal barbeque or a vehicle exhaust," Mr Geddes says.

"We know there will be a lot of visitors to the Mackenzie and we want to reduce as many fire risks as possible. Banning fireworks is part of our local risk reduction strategy.

"We urge people to think carefully about fire safety this summer."

Most the Mackenzie Basin is in restricted fire season, while the southern end is in a prohibited season. For exact fire season status locations, visit www.checkitsalright.nz