Total Fire Ban Revoked

Saturday 27th April 2013

Recent rain has eased the fire danger in the northern parts of Southland, allowing Southern Rural Fire to revoke the remaining areas still in a Total Fire Ban.

"It's been a mixed season" says Mike Grant Principal Rural Fire Officer for Southern Rural Fire. "The Northern parts of Southland have experienced a warm dry summer, while the more coastal areas of Southland have had some warm weather and in recent times plenty of rain".

Until Saturday 27th April Tuatapere, Eyre, Aparima, Northern, Gore, Blue Mountains, Naseby and a portion of Hokonui zone north of SH 96 between Mataura were in a Total Fire Ban.

Southern Rural Fire Authority principal rural fire officer Mike Grant said a restricted fire season will be put in place across the province, which means a permit has to be gained to light an open fire.

Some burning can occur without a permit including camp fires, barbecues, incinerators, offal holes and hedge trimmings. However people still need to take care.

Anyone who lights a fire in the open is responsible for making sure the fire is safe and does not spread, Mr Grant said.

Southern Rural Fire staff are available to help with advice for landowners on fire safety and Mr Grant urges people to consider possible risks and impact of their fire and to take all necessary precautions to ensure it is safe at all times.

Tips for a safe fire

Winter can be a good time to burn, large material that has been dried over the summer takes longer to absorb moisture, it will burn hot and clean and there are reduced complications with surrounding dry material.
Stack your pile at least 30 meters away on the downwind side of any shelterbelts, tree, fences or buildings
Only burn in winds of 15km or less
Consider having a number of smaller fires rather than one large one, it's easier to control if things don't go as planned
Once your have finished burning, go back a number of times and make sure it is out. Fires can flair up months after they have been lit.
Give your self a good window of opportunity. When pushed for a deadline this is when poor decisions are made and wild fire occur.

Fire permit applications can be made by phoning 0800 77 33 63 or e-mail ruralfire@southernruralfire.org.nz

To find out more about the Fire Season click here