Southland under restricted fire season

A restricted fire season is now in place throughout Southland as warm, windy weather continues to raise the province’s fire risk indicators.


Principal rural fire officer Mike Grant said, while the restrictions did not amount to a full ban, most fires were not allowed without a permit from the Southern Rural Fire Authority.


“Fires in incinerators, barbecues and traditional outdoor ovens, such as hangi, don’t require a permit,” Mr Grant said.


“Farmers can also still burn hedge trimmings and light fires in offal holes – provided common sense precautions are used.”


Given September and October had provided good burning weather, he urged Southlanders to consider delaying further burn-offs until autumn, rather than taking unnecessary risks now.


“It’s also really important, if people are lighting fires, that they take a good look at both the current and forecast weather conditions and, if it’s windy or strong winds are predicted, hold off until it’s calm.


“Ultimately, the person who lights the fire is responsible for the consequences if it burns out of control – even if they have a permit.”


The restricted fire season covered all of Southland, including Invercargill and Gore. If the warm and windy weather patterns prevailed, a total fire ban could be imposed within weeks, Mr Grant said.


Further information and advice was available through the Southern Rural Fire Authority fire permit line on 0800 773 363.