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

Restricted fire season lifted in the Mackenzie Basin

Restricted fire season lifted in the Mackenzie Basin

11 May 2022

The Mackenzie Basin has moved into an open fire season today (Wednesday 11 May). This means that a permit is no longer required to light an open air fire in the area.

Fire and Emergency District Manager Rob Hands says the lower temperatures and higher humidity in autumn have made it possible to ease the restrictions on open air fires in the Mackenzie Basin. The fireworks ban has also been lifted.

However, he says everyone planning to light a fire in the open or let off fireworks still needs to ensure they do it safely and with consideration for others.

The rest of the Mid South Canterbury District is already in an open fire season, with the exception of the Geraldine Forest Zone, the Waimate Forest Zone and all public conservation land. Those areas are in a restricted fire season all year round because of their inherent risk of fire.

If you’re unsure about what restrictions are in place anywhere in New Zealand, go to www.checkitsalright.nz or call 0800 658 628. 

Back to news hub