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

Waiouru Fire update #4

Waiouru Fire update #4

28 October 2026

Fire and Emergency New Zealand and New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) firefighters working on the fire at the Waiouru Military Training Area have worked hard to take advantage of more favourable weather today and have held the fire, stopping it from spreading further.

Fire and Emergency Incident Controller Nigel Dravitzki says that he is proud of the sustained efforts of ground teams working together in tough terrain and conditions, supported by air operations.

Thanks to their work, the fire size has not increased and only a small amount of smoke is being produced. However, Health New Zealand advises that people nearby who are particularly sensitive to smoke may experience symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, or irritation of the eyes, nose and throat. Anyone with health concerns can call Healthline 24/7 on 0800 611 116 for free health advice, or they should contact their own family doctor.

Drone teams will be working overnight again to survey and map hot spots that will be targeted by firefighters tomorrow.

Additional ground crews are being brought in tomorrow including Department of Conservation firefighters who will join the Fire and Emergency volunteers and NZDF personnel already at work. They will be supported by heavy machinery and aircraft.

Nigel Dravitzki says the weather conditions forecast for tomorrow are likely to see an increase in wind speeds, making firefighting more challenging.

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