Fire Danger Warning

Over the last two weeks a number of significant fires have occurred in Southland, Otago and Canterbury largely due to burnoffs escaping due to the high wind conditions associated with dry conditions that are being experienced in these areas. Many of these are due to people lighting fires and not heeding strong wind warnings. These wind events occur at this time of year due to the Equinox.

The Metservice is forecasting that northwest winds may reach severe gale force
in parts of Southland, Canterbury and Otago for a time from Friday through to Saturday evening.

This is a timely reminder to the public that conditions are dry and that any fires that are lit or start in these strong wind conditions have the potential to get out of control.

The public are reminded to take the following actions:
• Check with your local Rural fire Authority for any fire permit conditions for your area if you wish to light a fire
• Before lighting a fire check the long range weather forecast and ensure light winds are forecast
• When lighting a fire ensure that it is supervised and is completely extinguished before leaving it
• If you notice any suspicious fires ring 111

The National Rural Fire Authority is especially requesting Southland, Canterbury and Otago farmers in hill and high country areas take extreme care if undertaking burning operations over the next couple of days.

Land owners need to be aware of the forecasted weather expected for their area and contact their local Rural Fire Authority to check what conditions are in place.

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