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

Restricted Fire Season in coastal parts of North Otago

Restricted Fire Season in coastal parts of North Otago

16 January 2026

Outdoor fires will need a permit in the coastal area of North Otago from Monday morning, when Fire and Emergency New Zealand brings in a Restricted Fire Season for its Coastal Waitaki Zone.

The zone stretches from just south of Palmerston to the Waitaki River and extends about 50km inland.

Inland Otago is already in a Restricted Fire Season, including Queenstown Lakes, Central Otago and northern parts of the Waitaki District.

District Commander Craig Gold says that the latest change in fire season reflects the increasing levels of fire risk around Otago. In spite of intermittent rain, vegetation is drying out rapidly and will burn readily.

Declaring a Restricted Fire Season means that farmers, contractors, forestry contractors and others can still carry out controlled burns on their land if they need to, but they will have a permit which provides clear guidelines and advice on how to use fire safely.

There are exemptions for cultural cooking fires, but other types of recreational fires like campfires and bonfires will also need a permit, obtained in advance.

Go to www.checkitsalright.nz to find out the fire season status for any location in the country, and get advice on how to use fire safely.

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