With all the wet and cold weather we’ve been experiencing lately, it’s easy to forget that we’re in the middle of the fire season.
Please don’t be lulled into a false sense of security – just a few warm, windy days can quickly elevate our fire danger to very high or extreme levels.
Regular rainfall has led to tall grass along roadsides and plenty of other fuel in the forests, which will dry out rapidly when summer finally arrives.
A prohibited fire season has already been declared by some of our near neighbours in Central Otago, Queenstown Lakes and Upper Waitaki districts.
Please take care when using machinery or tools that can cause sparks – such as grinders, ride-on lawnmowers, chainsaws, tractors or motorbikes. Remember, if you see smoke or flames, call 111 immediately.