Fire restrictions in force

The combination of low rainfall and wind has dried the region out to the point where fire risk has escalated, says Hastings principal rural fire officer Trevor Mitchell.

A restricted fire season was brought in this week (December 7).

“While some rain has fallen, a reduction in soil moisture and hot windy days are rapidly drying out the region and the long term forecast is still for drought conditions to develop,” Mr Mitchell said.

Bringing in restrictions now will help ensure fires are lit in favourable conditions and that they are completely extinguished.

“Traditionally we have a number of fires caused by old burns reigniting up to 3 months later. With the expected dry conditions we want to eliminate these types of fires. “

People who have had large fires over the past few months are being urged to double check that there are no still-warm embers in the bed of the fire. “They need to be checked even if you have buried them,” Mr Mitchell said.

“If people have any concerns at all, they should contact the council and a fire officer can assist you to check for any residual heat using thermal imaging equipment. We would much rather check these out now than have to deal with a problem on a windy day over Christmas.”

People planning fires at functions over the holidays are being advised to contact council well in advance to find out if a permit is required. It takes about five days to process a permit and none will be issued over the holiday period between Christmas and New Year.

For information or request a permit, contact council on 871 5000,

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