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

Open fire season for Clutha

Open fire season for Clutha

11 November 2025

Clutha has returned to an open fire season.

The District was placed into a restricted fire season due to the local State of Emergency following October’s severe weather event.

With this now lifted, Fire and Emergency New Zealand Otago District Manager Craig Geddes says it is appropriate for the fire season to return to open.

"The restricted season had the desired effect of limiting open air fires to only permit holders, which reduced the risk of fires escaping during a time when resources and infrastructure was stretched.

"I would like to say thank you to Clutha residents who applied for a permit and conducted their burns safely in accordance with permit conditions.

"As we are close to summer, we will continue to assess and issue fire permits in Clutha despite the open season, and any that we have issued remain valid for the period issued."

While the District is now in an open fire season and permits are no longer required, people should remain vigilant with their fire safety and consult www.checkitsalright.nz to check it is safe to light a fire.

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