Fire restrictions are to be lifted across Otago and Southland from 8.00am today (Wednesday 11th April 2018).
Community Engagement Officer Sally Chesterfield said “we have lifted the restriction in response to the recent change in weather conditions”.
The exceptionally dry summer has resulted in extremely dry vegetation which takes longer to regain moisture and reduce fire danger levels.
“People lighting fires still need to think and plan ahead and take responsibility for any fires they light”.
“There is always risk associated with using fires regardless of the time of year and how wet it is, wind is the biggest factor that catches people out” she said.
A restricted or total fire ban season is still in place for some areas these include:
Southland – Zone B and C areas. This means fires in Zone B areas require a permit except for fires in incinerators, offal holes and barbecues.
Hedge and tree trimmings can also be burnt when the fire is 30m away from shelter belts, trees, fences or buildings.
Zone C area (covers from the Bluff Highway west towards the Awarua / Waituna wetlands, north to the Catlins Highway and east to the Mataura River) require permits for all fire types all year round.
Otago – Queenstown Red Zone no fires permitted, Total Fire Ban all year round.
One kilometers margin around all forestry and DOC land require permits for all fire types all year round.
Ms. Chesterfield also advised people to make sure smoke does not cause a nuisance to neighbors or create a hazard near roads.
Tips for Successful Burning
- Ensure vegetation is dry, wet, sappy vegetation creates lots of smoke and is a nuisance to neighbors.
- Fire material should be at least 30 meters from any building, hedges or other combustible material.
- Obtain a long range weather forecast to ensure there are not strong winds forecast.
- Keep your fire small and easy to control by feeding material into the fire a little at a time.
- Ensure there is a water supply sufficient to control any spread.
- Do not leave your fire unattended.
- When you have finished make sure the fire is out.
50% of all fires that Fire and Emergency are called to are for fires which people had thought were out but reignited during a windy period.
Keep yourself and your family safe by wearing long sleeved cotton or woolen shirts and pants and lace-up boots. Synthetic clothing melts.
If you have any questions relating to fire go to www.checkitsalright.nz or ring us on 0800 658 628.