Our 3-Step Escape Plan

  • First Escape Route
  • Second Escape Route
  • Meeting Place
Notes

Use this space to note any additional information about your escape plan, i.e. who will assist

Your checklist

  • Get low

    Smoke is poisonous and more deadly than flames.

    If you breathe smoke for more than a few breaths it can kill you.

  • Be fast

    A house fire can kill you in less than three minutes.

    Don't spend time trying to save possessions.

  • Close doors

    A closed door buys you time.

    It slows down the spread of fire, giving you more time to get to safety.

  • Get out - stay out!

    People have died by going back into a fire.

    Don't leave the meeting place to go back inside for any reason.

Call emergency services as soon as you are out and safe. Ask for FIRE.

Clearly state your address and let the operator know it anyone is still inside or has not made it to the safe meeting place.

Emergency call 111 Emergency text 111
Fire & Emergency New Zealand

Cyclone Vaianu Response Update #2

Cyclone Vaianu Response Update #2

12 April 2026

Fire and Emergency New Zealand is continuing to respond to 111 calls for assistance in areas affected by Cyclone Vaianu.

Most of the calls have come from the east coast of the North Island, reflecting the path of the storm and the high winds and rainfall.

Since 5am today, fire crews have responded to more than 100 calls, relating to wind damage and surface flooding.

Fire and Emergency is maintaining full readiness to respond to incidents in all areas already affected by the cyclone and in places where the full force is still to come.

Assistant National Commander Ken Cooper says specialist resources including teams with enhanced rescue and water response capability are in position ready to assist local brigades.

"In addition, resources will be moved from Rotorua to the Bay of Plenty to assist in areas most impacted by weather.

"We want to acknowledge and thank our communities for adhering to the safety advice and keeping off the roads and out of flood waters.

"We urge people to remain vigilant and to keep informed through your local Civil Defence and for weather updates MetService."

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