Fire and Emergency New Zealand is asking the public to be vigilant after embers from burn piles caused large vegetation fires last week.

Fire and Emergency Community Risk Manager Dean Harker says investigations into two vegetation fires, which broke out last Wednesday at Southbridge and Springfield, are now complete.

"The fires were caused when embers from burn piles were whipped up and spread by the strong winds," he says.

The fires burnt through 42 hectares, and one destroyed two utility sheds.

"In windy conditions embers from burn piles can travel up to 200 metres.

"That is why it is so important to check the forecast a week before your planned burn. If you’re in any doubt, then hold off.

"It’s also important to make sure you have suitable means to contain and extinguish the fire if needed, for example a water hose, water sprayer, shovel and dirt to smother, or a mechanical digger on site."

Dean says old fires which haven’t been fully extinguished can also reignite and escape.

"If you’ve been burning vegetation any time over the last few months or so, it’s important to check the fire is completely extinguished.

"If there’s hot ash, and it’s safe to do so, dig into it, spread it out and pour water over it."

Always go to www.checkitsalright.nz before lighting any fires or undertaking activities that could cause sparks.

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