Don’t light outdoor fires during lockdown

Hold off applying for a permit for an outdoor fire until the lockdown is over says Steve Turek, Fire and Emergency national manager, Community Readiness and Recovery.

We all want to get odd jobs done and clean up while we have more time at home, but please do not burn unnecessary fires such as household rubbish or garden waste he says.

"We are asking for your patience and understanding during these extraordinary times in our country and asking that you do not light any outdoor fires unless they are absolutely necessary," Steve Turek says. "If you currently have a permit, or are planning to use fire for activities such as stubble burn-offs, please carefully review the conditions before lighting any fires."

Fire and Emergency NZ are still processing and granting permits if the risk is low.

Consider alternatives to burning. But if you must light that fire in the open, go to checkitsalright.nz to check if you are allowed to have an open fire in your district and if you need a permit for it.

"Check the weather forecast, light the fire away from fences and anything else flammable, monitor any fires at all times and have a hose standing by. Be absolutely sure it is completely extinguished. Check historic fires are fully extinguished.

Turek says New Zealanders can be confident that Fire and Emergency is well-prepared and ready to respond to emergencies as usual during the nationwide self- isolation period.