Fire ban for Bay of Plenty Coast

File image/SunLive.

A prohibited fire season has been declared for the Bay of Plenty Coast, Central Lakes, and Pumicelands.

Principal Rural Fire Officer Steve Webb says all fire permits have been suspended in those areas.

"A prohibited fire season means no fires are permitted as the fire danger is too high," Steve Webb says. "During a prohibited fire season only gas and charcoal barbeques can be used".

"Hangi are still allowed, but we are asking people planning hangi to contact us first as conditions are becoming very dry and we may want to put additional protection in place."

For Hangi advice contact Fire and Emergency on 07 858 7612

Steve Webb says it is vitally important that people understand the risks. In extreme conditions it only takes a spark to start a devastating wildfire. That spark can come from a piece of equipment such as a lawnmower, or a grinder, welding or a plough.

"To protect your home, keep roofs and gutters clear of dead leaves, debris and pine needles. Move anything that could burn such as mulch, leaves, firewood piles away from exterior walls, decks or porches."

If the current conditions persist there may be a requirement to prohibit any activities that may cause fires to start.

You can find more information on how you can reduce the risk of fire at www.checkitsalright.nz.

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4 comments

Why Hangi's

Posted on 03-02-2020 19:35 | By Merlin

It is still a fire.


Why?

Posted on 03-02-2020 21:46 | By Yadick

Steve Webb says it's vitally important for people to understand the risks . . . it only takes a spark to start a devastating wildfire . . . a lawnmower, a grinder, welding or a plough. I understand the risks and a hangi is right up there. Why in the world is a hangi okay? A flaming, burning, ember emitting fire . . .


How about fireworks??

Posted on 04-02-2020 08:01 | By Border Patrol

We are still hearing fireworks being let off, even after all of this hot weather and fire risk warnings- how about tracking these people down and prosecuting to set an example?


Good Point Border Patrol

Posted on 04-02-2020 15:12 | By Yadick

Border Patrol makes a really good point AND in tracking these people down they may very well get more bang for their buck. I have heard on very good grounds that the skyward fireworks are often let off to notify 'customers' that drugs are now available . . . Track them down for illegal explosives and drugs. So Border Patrol makes a good point that could be worth somehow doing.


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