November 28th 2012

Hastings District moves to a restricted fire season

Extremely dry conditions, coupled with low soil moisture and river levels, have caused the Hastings District to move into a restricted fire season.

Hastings District Council Principal Rural Fire Officer Trevor Mitchell says “The restricted fire season will begin at 8am on Monday 3rd December 2012. The long range forecast indicates that we may get some periods of patchy rain, but no significant rainfall is expected in the near future. Strong winds are also a major concern as they can reignite embers from fires that were not properly extinguished and spread the flames very quickly.”

“We are now entering a period of higher fire danger and we ask that everyone is extra vigilant when dealing with fires. During the restricted fire season, a permit must be obtained before a fire is lit,” Mr Mitchell says.

“However, anyone lighting a small fire in a container (such as an incinerator or brazier), a gas barbecue or a similar outdoor gas appliance won’t need to obtain a permit unless the fire is set to burn after sunset and before sunrise. These fires must not be left unattended until completely extinguished and must not be lit in windy conditions or close to flammable material or buildings.”

Anyone on a rural property who is contemplating lighting a fire should seek advice from a rural fire officer on (06) 871 5000.

People are asked to report any unattended fires – dial 111.

Further information on the lighting of fires during a restricted fire season is available at www.hastingsdc.govt.nz/fire-restrictions

ENDS

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