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.

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Fire & Emergency New Zealand

Seven possible fireworks fires since going on sale – Fire and Emergency urges caution this Guy Fawkes.

Seven possible fireworks fires since going on sale – Fire and Emergency urges caution this Guy Fawkes.

4 November 2026

Fire and Emergency New Zealand is urging people to think before they light fireworks this Guy Fawkes following several fires on Monday and Tuesday.

Acting National Manager Community Readiness and Recovery Tom Ronaldson says there have already been seven suspected fireworks-related incidents this week.

"On Monday, three vegetation fires involving trees and bushes look like they were set alight by fireworks in Papatoetoe, Kawerau and Fernside," says Tom Ronaldson.

"On Tuesday, there were three vegetation fires in Rangitaiki, Ferrymead and Seddon, and a car fire in Rangiora, all likely caused by fireworks.

"We haven’t seen as many fireworks-related fires as in previous years, but all of these fires are preventable. So it’s so important people who choose to light fireworks take responsibility and do it safely.

"This Thursday, the weather is forecast for scattered showers in the North Island and cloudy with possible showers across the South Island on Guy Fawkes night.

"However, low risk doesn’t mean no risk. The number of fireworks-related fires has been on the increase over the past two years. We would like to see that trend turn around this year.

"Always check local fire conditions and restrictions at checkitsalright.nz before lighting them. Your fireworks are your own responsibility," Tom says.

If you’re lighting fireworks, please take some simple precautions to keep everyone safe:

  • Before setting fireworks, go to checkitsalright.nz to check the weather conditions and the fire restrictions for your area.
  • Many public areas have year-round fireworks bans in place. Check with your local council before setting off fireworks at beaches or parks.
  • Don’t set fireworks off when it’s windy.
  • Have a large bucket of water or hose at hand.
  • Ensure your fireworks are pointed at the sky and won’t end up in anything that can catch fire including buildings or vegetation.
  • Be a good neighbour. Let people know around you if you’re planning to set fireworks off, especially those with pets and livestock.
  • Dispose of your used fireworks safely - soak them in water before you throw them out.
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