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

Winter cold brings open fire season to all Hawke’s Bay - people urged to be fire safe at home

This page is available in English
View in English

Winter cold brings open fire season to all Hawke’s Bay - people urged to be fire safe at home

14 Haratua 2024

Fire and Emergency New Zealand is revoking the restricted fire season for Tararua East and Hawke’s Bay Coast as of 12pm Tuesday 14 May, until further notice.

This means people can light outdoor fires without a permit approved by Fire and Emergency.

Today’s change in fire season means all the Hawke’s Bay District is now in an open fire season.

Declaring the fire season change Acting District Manager Jason Hill says lower temperatures across Tararua East and Hawke’s Bay Coast had reduced the wildfire danger.

"However, we still expect people to take care when lighting outdoor fires. It is important to ensure they are well controlled and safe."

Jason Hill says as it gets colder it is also important people do everything they can to reduce the risk of fire in their homes this winter.

"Make sure to get your chimney swept and cleaned before the first fire of the season," he says.

"Keep drying clothing, curtains, bedding, and anything flammable at least a metre away from the heater.

Jason Hill says to remember electric blankets are for heating the bed before you get in, not for sleeping with.

"Remember to turn your electric blanket off before you get into bed," he says.

"Have working smoke alarms throughout and a plan to escape your house in a fire."

"We urge people to find this information and more about ways to make your home fire safe this winter on our website. "

Back to news hub