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 ban lifted in parts of Otago

Fire ban lifted in parts of Otago

15 April 2026

Fire and Emergency New Zealand is moving the Otago Central, Naseby and Lakes zones into a restricted fire season as of 8am on Wednesday 15 April, until further notice.

During a restricted fire season, anyone wanting to light an outdoor fire must first obtain a fire permit from Fire and Emergency.

The following special risk zones will remain in a prohibited fire season:

- Queenstown

- Lake Wānaka islands

- Lake Wakatipu islands

- Mt Iron and Albert Town reserve.

The section 52 prohibition of fireworks in Upper Waitaki, Central and Lakes fire zones will also be revoked at 8am on Wednesday 15 April, until further notice.

Fireworks will remain prohibited in the following special risk zones:

- Queenstown

- Lake Wānaka islands

- Lake Wakatipu islands

- Mt Iron and Albert Town reserve

- Glendhu Bluffs

- Naseby

- Lake Ōhau.

Otago District Commander, Deane Chalmers, says recent cooler weather has reduced the fire risk.

"South-westerly weather and shorter days mean the vegetation around the district is no longer as dry.

"Fires are less likely to start and will not spread as quickly in these conditions.

"But fires can start in Otago at any time of the year, which is why people must apply for a fire permit at www.checkitsalright.nz," Deane Chalmers says.

"This website will also tell you whether the conditions are safe and provide safety tips for your burn."

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