Environment
Increased fire dangers are forecast for Otago and Southland on Wednesday as predicted gale force winds cover the regions.
Last week strong winds fanned many fires across Otago, keeping firefighters busy.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand is asking people who have burnt in the last two months to check old burn sites to ensure the fire is out. Turn the area over, ensure there is no heat left and apply water until the area is cold to touch. A small amount of heat in an old fire site can re-ignite and winds transport embers into surrounding vegetation.
Although Otago has had some rain, frosts, warm days and wind have dried tussock, grasses and other light material, making it very easy to ignite. People need to be extra careful and think about what they are doing.
Fire Managers are asking people to be responsible and refrain from lighting fires until conditions ease.
Spring brings with its equinoctial winds (seasonal winds), blowing away the cold wintery weather and ushering in warmer summer days. During this period of change, we experience an increase in wind events and changeable fire danger.
Fire and Emergency NZ asks people to check the forecast before burning and ensure no strong winds are predicted for the following 48 hours after burning.
Having a safe distance from other flammable material such as hedges, forest blocks and buildings, will also keep your fire safe.
The size of the pile influences how the fire will behave. It can be tempting to burn a large pile. A large pile means a large amount of fuel. The more fuel, the hotter the burn, the less control you have. Small fires are easier to control or put out and have less residual burning which reduces the chances of a flare-up.