Cooler Temperatures Do Nothing To Reduce Fire Risk

Hastings District Council Principal Fire Officer, Mike Maguire says despite recent cooler temperatures and light rain the public should still be aware of the extreme fire risk in Hawke’s Bay.

“The underlying conditions which lead to a total fire ban being put in place still exist. Although the surface layer of vegetation may be damp the chance of a large fire taking hold in Hawke’s Bay is still very high,” Mr Maguire says.

“Forecasts suggest a warm period coming up will return the region quickly to the volatile conditions of several weeks ago and members of the public, in both urban and rural environments, need to be vigilant about fire safety.”

Remember:

• Do not light any fires - even in urban areas or at the beach.

• When using equipment in rural areas be extremely cautious of stone strike or hot exhausts etc.

• Have a fire plan. What will you do if there is a fire on your property? Where is your water
supply?

• If you see flames or smoke anywhere do not hesitate to call 111. The sooner the fire service can attend a fire the less risk there is to life and property.