Are you prepared for a wildfire?

As summer approaches, Waimakariri District Council is reminding residents that wildfire risk is real, and preparation is key.

Waimakariri has seen enough wildfires in recent years to know that a fire can start at any time. The significant fire in Loburn in January 2024 shows just how quickly things can get out of control during a hot and dry summer.

Two community barbecues are planned this month for residents to gain practical advice when preparing for a wildfire:

  • Waikuku Beach Domain | Saturday 22 November, 4-6pm
  • West Eyreton Domain | Saturday 29 November, 4-6pm

Events are hosted by local fire brigades and our Civil Defence Emergency Management team. They will be sharing practical tips on reducing the risk of wildfire on your property, what you need to take in case of evacuations, and how you can prepare your community for an emergency.

You don’t need to live rurally to be at risk from wildfire. The fires at Pegasus Beach and Pines Beach in recent years show that if there’s vegetation close by and potential for someone to generate a spark, then there’s a wildfire risk.

Know when it's ok to light a fire

In New Zealand, 97% of wildfires are caused by people, but you can do your part to minimise the risk. Follow Fire and Emergency New Zealand's 3 Step Tool which tells you whether you can light your fire or do your outdoor work safely, what the fire risk is and what you should do to stay safe.

Outdoor maintenance tips

Practical steps to reduce the risk of fire on your property:

  1. Grass: Keep grass short, watered and green during the summer months.
  2. Gutters: Keep gutters and areas around decks clear of dead leaves, debris and pine needles.
  3. Flammable material: Don’t store flammable material under or against your house or deck (including flammable doormats).
  4. Plants and vegetation: Remove highly flammable plants close to your home and other buildings on your property. If you have vegetation against your house, consider removing it or replacing plants with less flammable species.

Learn how to protect your property on the Fire and Emergency NZ website.

Where to find more advice

If in doubt, get out!

Wildfires move quickly. If you can see the smoke or flames from a wildfire and you feel unsafe, don’t wait for an official warning to leave. Call 111 if your life or property is threatened, or you can’t evacuate on your own.