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 three areas of Otago

Fire ban lifted in three areas of Otago

23 April 2026

Fire and Emergency New Zealand is revoking the restricted fire seasons for Otago Central, Lakes, and Upper Waitaki zones from 8am, Thursday 23 April, until further notice.

This means you do not need to apply for a permit from Fire and Emergency New Zealand to light an outdoor fire in these areas.

Otago District Commander, Deane Chalmers, says recent cooler weather has reduced the fire risk in these three zones. However, he says the following special fire risk zones remain in prohibited fire seasons and restricted fire seasons.

Prohibited fire season:

- Queenstown

- Lake Wānaka islands

- Lake Wakatipu islands

- Mt Iron and Albert Town reserve

- Lake Ohau.

During a prohibited fire season, all outdoor fires and fireworks are completely banned.

Restricted fire season:

- Naseby

- Glendhu Bluffs.

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

Deane Chalmers says no matter the fire season, people should always remain cautious.

“Fires can start in Otago at any time of the year.

"The conditions can change quickly, so we would still ask that anyone planning to light a fire in the open ensures they do so safely and with consideration for others.

“If you’re planning on lighting a fire, remember to continue going to www.checkitsalright.nz to check if it’s safe to light."

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