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

Southland moves back to open fire season

Southland moves back to open fire season

18 March 2025

Rain and cooler temperatures in Southland have lowered the fire danger, prompting Fire and Emergency New Zealand to move the district back to an open season at 8am on Tuesday 18 March.

Fire and Emergency Southland District Manager Julian Tohiariki says this means permits will no longer be required to light an open-air fire in most of the district.

There is still a restricted fire season in place around plantation forests, Awarua Wetlands, and Department of Conservation land. 

“We appreciate those people across Southland who have taken care with planned fires over the dry summer period, and ask everyone to stay vigilant when lighting fires in an open season,” Julian Tohiariki says.

“The wind will remain a factor through to autumn, so Southlanders need to keep this in mind when lighting fires.

“If you want to light a fire, you should still go to www.checkitsalright.nz to check the conditions in your location, and for advice on fire safety.

“Make sure you have everything you need to contain the fire and extinguish it safely, and keep checking it afterwards.”

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