Fire Warning On Wither Hills

People walking, running or mountainbiking on the Wither Hills are being warned to take extra care because three suspicious fires started in the Taylor Pass area yesterday.

Blenheim rural fire brigade deputy principal rural fire officer John Foley, who is also the emergency services manager for the Marlborough District Council, says it’s already very dry on the foothills and the fire risk is increasing.

“If anyone sees anything suspicious in this area we need them to report it straight away. Don’t hesitate to contact the emergency services.”

Signs are being erected by the Council at the main entrances to the Wither Hills Farm Park recommending people not walk in the area during the hot daytime hours.

It is safe practice to carry a cell phone when out walking.

Any fire spotted in the area should be reported immediately by calling 111.

Park users are reminded there are emergency location signs along all the tracks, at junctions and lookout points throughout the Farm Park and the Mountain Bike Park. Each sign has the name of the track and the
GPS coordinates for that location; a set of numbers which identify the location to emergency services.

Mr Foley stressed how important it was for people to understand that a grassfire moves at terrific speed and, once a blaze ignites, the situation quickly becomes serious.

“You cannot out-run a fire – particularly when the wind comes up,” he said.

Remember:

• Anyone entering the Wither Hills Farm Park should be aware of the potential danger from fire.
• Particular care is advised during hot, windy weather. In these conditions, users are advised to use only the lower Forest Hills or Rotary Lookout walking tracks.
• Early mornings and evenings are the safest times for walking during dry, warm weather.