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

Hazardous chemicals incident in Tuakau

Hazardous chemicals incident in Tuakau

21 July 2026

Firefighters are responding to a hazardous substances incident in the township of Tuakau, Waikato District, where a large amount of an unknown chemical has entered drains near the water treatment plant. The incident was reported at 4pm today.

Residents have been evacuated from houses in the vicinity of Kowhai St and Matipo Drive. Other people in the area are advised to stay inside with doors and windows closed to avoid possible exposure to fumes. Other members of the public should stay away from the area until further notice.

Fire and Emergency is obtaining specialist advice from the Queensland Fire Department to assist in identifying the substance and is working with the Waikato District Council and Watercare to develop a plan to flush the drains safely. The nature and origin of the substance is not yet known.

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