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

Fire and Emergency New Zealand congratulates Kiwis on quiet Guy Fawkes night

Fire and Emergency New Zealand congratulates Kiwis on quiet Guy Fawkes night

6 November 2026

Fire and Emergency New Zealand is pleased there were no major fires over Guy Fawkes but continues to urge caution for the weekend ahead.

Eighteen fireworks-related fires took place over Guy Fawkes night, the majority of which were vegetation fires. While none were major, all these fires were preventable, Acting National Manager Community Readiness and Recovery Tom Ronaldson says.

"Last year we saw 30 fireworks-related incidents on Guy Fawkes night, so to see that number down to 18 is pleasing.

"While we haven’t seen as many fireworks-related fires as in previous years, it is important to remember that all of these fires are preventable. So if people choose to light fireworks, take responsibility and do it safely," Tom says.

"Friday and the weekend are looking to be overcast and rainy for most of the country - but a low fire risk doesn’t mean no risk."

Since fireworks went on sale on Monday, there have been 31 fireworks-related incidents, the majority vegetation fires.

If you’re lighting fireworks, please take some simple precautions to keep everyone safe:

- Before setting fireworks, go to checkitsalright.nz to check the weather conditions and the fire restrictions for your area.

- Many public areas have year-round fireworks bans in place. Check with your local council before setting off fireworks at beaches or parks.

- Don’t set fireworks off when it’s windy.

- Have a large bucket of water or hose at hand.

- Ensure your fireworks are pointed at the sky and won’t end up in anything that can catch fire including buildings or vegetation.

- Be a good neighbour. Let people around you know if you’re planning to set fireworks off, especially those with pets and livestock.

- Dispose of your used fireworks safely - soak them in water before you throw them out.

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