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

Taranaki firefighters thank community for support

Taranaki firefighters thank community for support

25 July 2025

Taranaki firefighters wish to extend their thanks to the community for their support following recent fatal fires.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand Taranaki District Manager David Utumapu says tragic events such as these have a big impact on the people involved, firefighters and the wider community.

"We know there is a lot of emotion for everyone at the moment and my heartfelt condolences go out to the whānau and friends of those who have lost their loved ones in recent fatal fires," he says.

"It’s an incredibly difficult time but I want to thank the community for rallying around each other and our firefighters.

"It’s important people support each other at a time like this."

David Utumapu says investigations will find the circumstances that led to recent fatal fires, but there are some key safety measures people can take to stay fire safe in their homes.

"Make sure you have working smoke alarms in all bedrooms, hallways and living areas - including caravans and sleep outs.

"When you hear smoke alarms go off get out and stay out. Make sure your family has a three-step escape plan, which is at least two clear paths out of the house and a safe meeting space," he says.

It is important to keep flammable materials, such as clothing or bedding, at least one metre from the heater or fire.

"As well as this check all electrical equipment is in good working order," David Utumapu says.

"If you use an electric blanket check for hotspots by turning it on high for 15 mins, then switching it off and running your hand over the blanket. Make sure to turn your blanket off before you go to sleep."

If people would like help making their home fire safe they can request a home fire safety visit here: Home Fire Safety Visits | Fire and Emergency New Zealand

More fire safety advice can be found at https://www.fireandemergency.nz/winter-fire-safety/

Fire safety top tips

  • Have working smoke alarms in all bedrooms, hallways and living areas - including caravans and sleep outs. Check they are working by pushing the button each month.
  • When smoke alarms sound get out and stay out.
  • Have a three-step escape plan in place, which is at least two clear paths out of the house and a safe meeting space.
  • Keep all flammable items a metre from the heater.
  • Check all electrical equipment is in good working order, including electric blankets.

ENDS

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