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

Canterbury fire risk likely to spike on Friday

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Canterbury fire risk likely to spike on Friday

Cantabrians are being asked to take particular care not to spark an unwanted fire on Friday, as the fire danger is likely to rise sharply for a period, before the arrival of some forecast showers later in the day.

Fire and Emergency’s Community Risk Manager, Dean Harker, says his team are monitoring the factors which would underpin a decision to introduce fire restrictions in Canterbury. “We are not at that threshold yet, but some parts of Selwyn, Waimakariri and Christchurch are getting close.”

Vegetation becomes easier to ignite as it dries out so things like a spark from a mower blade hitting a stone, a hot vehicle exhaust parked in long grass, or an unattended camp stove can all cause a fire that will spread quickly.

Farmers should avoid burning stubble on Friday right across Canterbury on Friday for the same reason.

Some parts of the wider Canterbury region are already under restrictions so it’s best to refer to the www.checkitsalright.nz website to see whether it is OK to light fires and set off fireworks, as well as for general advice on outdoor fire safety.