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

Total fire ban in response to escalating risk in parts of Nelson and Tasman Districts

Total fire ban in response to escalating risk in parts of Nelson and Tasman Districts

15 March 2026

Fire and Emergency New Zealand will enforce bans and restrictions on outdoor fires in much of the Nelson-Tasman area from tomorrow morning (Monday 16 March) due to the escalating fire risk.

This includes a Prohibited Fire Season in the Coastal, Waimea and Lake Rotoiti fire zones, where all outdoor fires will be completely banned, and a Restricted Fire Season in the Murchison zone, where outdoor fires will require a permit.

Announcing the fire season changes, District Manager Grant Haywood said no further permits would be issued until conditions ease across the area. Recent rain has not had a significant impact on the underlying fire risk, and he urged people not to be complacent.

"Fires will start and spread very easily and will be more challenging for our firefighters to contain and put out in these conditions," he said. "If anyone sees signs of smoke, please call 111 immediately."

Anyone considering an outdoor fire can easily see whether their location is covered by the total ban or the restricted fire season by going to www.checkitsalright.nz

Back to news hub