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Horizons Regional Council

Tuesday 13 January, 2015

Rural fire teams kept busy

Rural fire teams throughout the Region have attended 18 fires since Christmas, including three significant ones.

Principal rural fire officer Paul Chaffe, based at Horizons Regional Council, says hot, dry weather has increased the rural fire risk and residents are being asked to take extra care with fire at this time.

“We have had three significant fires since Christmas involving areas up to six hectares in size,” he says.

“The longest fire to date was eight hours and the majority have been grass and scrub with some commercial forest involvement. The water tanker has been called out eight times and helicopter twice.”

Mr Chaffe says the team is keeping an eye on areas in the Horowhenua, Manawatu and Rangitikei districts as the forecast continues to stay dry.

“We are getting very close to putting fire restrictions in place. Combined with water restrictions that are now coming into play around the Region it is crucial no risks with fire are taken,” he says.

Mr Chaffe says if people absolutely have to burn, it is extremely important they do the following;

1. Before lighting a fire check with the district council first;

2. Obtain an up to date weather forecast;

3. Have a minimum of a 3m fire break completely surrounding the fire;

4. Do not light a fire within 5m of a boundary fence;

5. Ensure you have some way to put the fire out, if you cant put it out then don’t light it;

6. Stay with your fire at all times;

7. Light in the morning so its out before evening;

8. Notify your neighbours;

9. Don’t create a smoke nuisance; and

10. If in doubt don’t light it.

For up to date information about fire and water restrictions please visit Horizons’ websitewww.horizons.govt.nz

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