Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand
Strong winds fanned multiple vegetation fires across Otago today. Fire and Emergency New Zealand is asking everyone to take extra care with fire outdoors as the region heads into what is expected to be a challenging wildfire season.
District Commander Blair Kiely notes the common factor in all of today’s incidents was how quickly they escalated in the wind. “Strong winds and warm temperatures mean that fires spread quickly and are much more difficult for our firefighters to contain and bring under control. The winds were so strong today that in most places we were not able to use aircraft.”
“Everyone can help by taking extra care with fire and getting prepared now, before conditions get any drier.”
Most wildfires in New Zealand are caused by people and their activities. Anyone thinking about lighting a fire outdoors should check the weather forecast carefully, visit www.checkitsalright.nz for guidance on conditions and fire season status in their area, and follow that advice.
“I would like to thank every firefighter who has responded to the fires across Otago today, and all those who have been in support roles,” Blair Kiely says. “Giving up their Labour Day holiday to fight fires was a selfless act to support our communities.”