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 reminds fireworks users to be safe this Guy Fawkes

Fire and Emergency New Zealand reminds fireworks users to be safe this Guy Fawkes

30 October 2026

Clear space and calm conditions should be the priority for people planning to set off fireworks this Guy Fawkes, Fire and Emergency New Zealand says.

Acting National Manager Community Readiness and Recovery Tom Ronaldson reminds Kiwis to check the conditions before setting off fireworks and not to set off fireworks when it’s windy.

"Several large fires in recent weeks have already shown how easily fires can start and spread in windy conditions," he says.

"Over the past decade there have been on average 160 firework-related fires each year, with the amount rising in the last two years.

"With parts of the country already starting to see El Niño conditions bringing warm and dry weather, it’s particularly important now and through the summer months that people take care if they're planning to set off fireworks.

"If you choose to light fireworks it’s your responsibility to light them safely and make sure they don’t cause a fire. It is important people point them up to the sky, well away from anything flammable, and that they have water on hand in case it’s needed.

"We encourage everyone to go to checkitsalright.nz to check the weather conditions and guidance on how to light them safely. Some parts of the country have fire restrictions in place, so it’s important to check."

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 know around you 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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