Media release
29 January 2013
Fire danger extreme
Hot dry weather will bring extreme fire danger over the next few days meaning that one careless act could spark a
devastating blaze warns Department of Conservation (DOC) fire officer Tony Teeling.
“Our beautiful summer weather is pushing the risk of fire into the extreme meaning fires will start easily and they will
spread fast,” says Teeling.
“DOC asks that people do not light fires at all over the next few days while temperatures soar and humidity plummets.
“In addition avoid driving off-road, hot outdoor work such as grinding and welding, and use of motorised equipment
including mowers, chainsaws and scrub bars.
“In situations where people have already lit fires, please return to the old fire site to confirm it is totally out.
“Back country users need to take extreme care with all cooking devices, ensuring they are in an area clear of vegetation
and cannot easily be upset.”
Within Canterbury there are areas of total fire ban and other areas where restrictions apply. People are advised to
contact their local rural fire authority for further information on activities that may cause fire.
DOC staff have already been called out to over 50 fires in Canterbury this season, and remain on high alert.
ENDS
Background information
Under the Forest and Rural Fires Act, DOC is the Rural Fire Authority responsible for preventing and controlling fire on
public conservation land, all unoccupied crown land and within one kilometre of these lands.