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

Access to the property for emergency services

E wātea ana tēnei whārangi ki te reo Māori
Tirohia ki te reo Māori

If we can't get to you, we cant help you. It's important to make sure there's suitable access to your home for emergency services.

If you live in a rural area, you should also make sure your property is clearly signposted with your Rural Addresses Property Identification (RAPID) number.

Fire appliances are generally larger and heavier than those used by other emergency services. Poor or inadequate access can result in a delayed response.

This can have a direct impact on the safety of occupants and the protection of property. The longer it takes us to get our equipment to your house, the longer it will take to put out the fire.

To ensure we have sufficient access, make sure your driveway is at least 4 x 4 meters.

You can find more information on keeping your rural home fire safe in our rural fire safety checklist.

Access to water supplies

Ensure there is an adequate water supply near the structures for fire and emergency services to use.

Make sure there is space for portable pumps to be positioned within 7 metres of the water supply, with access into the supply.

For more information and advice, contact your local fire station and talk to your local Fire and Emergency New Zealand manager.

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