Hot, dry start to summer sparks fire restrictions

Fire restrictions are being put in place across the greater Christchurch region as a scorching start to summer raises the fire risk.

From Saturday 9 December you will need a fire permit if you want to light a fire in open air in Christchurch City, Selwyn, Hurunui and Waimakariri districts.

A hot start to the summer has led to fire restrictions being put in place across the Christchurch City Council district.

“Open air fires can spread to vegetation and then get out of control really quickly so it’s vital you apply for a permit before you light up outdoors,’’ says Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) Area Commander Dave Stackhouse.

“It’s easy to apply for a fire permit. Go to www.checkitsalright.nz and follow the steps to apply for a fire permit. If you don’t have access to the website, call us on 0800 658 628 or email us at Firepermit.christchurch@fireandemergency.nz so we can assist you.

“We can work with you to make sure your fire burns safely, or in some cases, we can advise you that it’s not safe to burn a fire where you plan to,’’ Mr Stackhouse says.

He is also advising people to avoid activities, such as welding, grinding and even mowing lawns, that may start a fire during the hottest part of the day.

Stone strike from mowers has caused several fires in recent days.

With more high temperatures forecast in the coming days and the prospect of a long, hot summer ahead, Christchurch City Council is urging property owners to play their part in helping reducing the fire risk in the city.

“Long dry grass can cause fires to spread quickly so it is important at this time of year that people keep any grass around their property trimmed,’’ says Richard Neale, Compliance and Investigations Team Leader at the Council.

“As property owners we all have a responsibility to ensure our property is kept in a safe condition and that means taking practical steps to ensure any potential fire hazards are removed.

“That responsibility extends to empty sections you might own so we would really encourage you to check those too to make sure any fire risk is minimized,'' Mr Neale says.

Watch a short video to see how your can reduce the fire risk to your property.

Environment Canterbury is also reminding people that the Canterbury Regional Air Plan restricts outdoor burning for air quality purposes and must be complied with.

“Under the Air Plan outdoor burning is not allowed on properties under two hectares unless it is for cooking food. Some outdoor burning is allowed on properties over two hectares but strict conditions apply,’’ says Environment Canterbury Principal Advisor Catherine White.