Federated Farmers warns farmers of fire bans

9 January 2015

Federated Farmers warns farmers of fire bans

Federated Farmers warns farmers and the rural community that as the countryside dries up more and more regions are facing fire restrictions, so they need to take extra caution.

As of Saturday 10 January 2015, from 6am until further notice, the Otago Rural Fire Authority will declare a total fire ban across all the Lakes, Coastal, Clutha and Catlins Zones in their Authority.

And as of Sunday, 11 January, from 9am until further notice, the Hurunui and Waimakariri Fire Areas will be prohibited, meaning it is now an offence to light any fire in the open air in these areas.

A total fire ban also remains in place for the Central Zone of the Otago and Selwyn Authority. To find out what restrictions there are across the country by clicking here.

Under the declared Prohibited Fire Season the following are banned:

• Camp fires

• Fireworks

• Bonfires

• Rubbish fires

• Braziers

• Flying lanterns

• Vegetation clearance fires including crop residue

• Outdoor incinerators.

However, gas barbeques and gas cookers are ok.

The fire ban applies to the urban and rural areas throughout the prohibited areas and all existing fire permits are revoked. Special fire permits will be considered by each Rural Fire Authority for emergency situations if conditions allow.

For more information on the Authority phone 0800 673 473. A Prohibited Fire Season is given under Sections 21 and 22 of the Forest and Rural Fires Act 1977.

© Scoop Media