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

Otago fires show why preparing matters this El Niño season

Otago fires show why preparing matters this El Niño season

26 October 2026

Strong winds fanned multiple vegetation fires across Otago today. Fire and Emergency New Zealand is asking everyone to take extra care with fire outdoors as the region heads into what is expected to be a challenging wildfire season.

District Commander Blair Kiely notes the common factor in all of today's incidents was how quickly they escalated in the wind. "Strong winds and warm temperatures mean that fires spread quickly and are much more difficult for our firefighters to contain and bring under control. The winds were so strong today that in most places we were not able to use aircraft."

"Everyone can help by taking extra care with fire and getting prepared now, before conditions get any drier."

Most wildfires in New Zealand are caused by people and their activities. Anyone thinking about lighting a fire outdoors should check the weather forecast carefully, visit www.checkitsalright.nz for guidance on conditions and fire season status in their area, and follow that advice.

"I would like to thank every firefighter who has responded to the fires across Otago today, and all those who have been in support roles," Blair Kiely says. "Giving up their Labour Day holiday to fight fires was a selfless act to support our communities."

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