Prohibited fire season declared in Far North

14 Kohitātea 2020

The Far North, Whangarei and Kaipara are now in a prohibited fire season.

Principal Rural Fire Officer Myles Taylor says all fire permits have been cancelled.

"A prohibited fire season means no fires are permitted as the fire danger is too high," Myles Taylor says, "During a prohibited fire season only gas barbeques can be used".

"Hangi are still allowed, but we are asking people planning hangi to contact us first as conditions are becoming very dry and we may wish to put additional protection in place."

Contact Fire and Emergency NZ,  Region 1; for areas Far North, Whangarei, Kaipara : 09 4076817

Myles Taylor says it is vitally important that people understand the risks. In extreme conditions it only takes a spark to start a devastating wildfire. That spark can come from a piece of equipment such as a lawnmower, or a grinder, or a plough.

"To protect your home, keep roofs and gutters clear of dead leaves, debris and pine needles. Move anything that could burn (such as mulch, leaves, firewood piles) away from exterior walls, decks or porches."

You can find more information at www.checkitsalright.nz