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

Don’t let Christmas go up in flames

Don’t let Christmas go up in flames

18 December 2025

With many parts of the country experiencing hot and windy conditions, Fire and Emergency New Zealand has enforced restrictions on outdoor fires in several districts, with more expected to follow.

National Wildfire Manager Tim Mitchell wants to remind people to apply for fire permits early.

"If your Christmas celebrations include an outdoor fire and you’re in a restricted fire season, you may need to apply for a permit on www.checkitsalright.nz.

"Applying for a fire permit is free and can take some days to process - so don’t leave it until the last minute.

"Fire permits are authorised by Fire and Emergency to ensure your fire is safe and controlled to reduce the risk of wildfires.

"You don’t need a permit for a hāngī, umu or lovo, as long as they’re no bigger than 2m by 2m, are conducted safely with appropriate supervision, and you have a hose nearby," Tim Mitchell says.

"To find out more about the different fire types and requirements you need to follow, including if you need a fire permit and the weather conditions are safe to light a fire, go to www.checkitsalright.nz.

"If you obtain a permit, you still need to check the weather conditions are safe to light a fire, make sure you follow all the listed conditions, keep a copy on you while you’re burning, and most importantly - ensure your fire is completely extinguished before leaving.

"If your fire is visible to neighbours and the public, to reduce the impact on our crews, it’s helpful if you let us know about your fire using the ‘notify us’ tool on www.firepermit.nz.

"97 percent of wildfires in Aotearoa New Zealand are started by people. Too many devastating wildfires have started with a controlled burn that wasn’t put out properly. This is avoidable," Tim Mitchell says.

"Don’t let Christmas go up in flames. Let’s all do our part to protect our beautiful country this holiday season." 

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