Source: Waikato District Health Board
The large vegetation fire near Meremere, which includes the Whangamarino wetlands is now under control. Fire and Emergency New Zealand said the fire may take some time to fully extinguish due to where it is burning in peat and wetland.
Although under control, Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora says there is potential that people who are sensitive to smoke – such as those with heart or lung conditions, people who are pregnant, young children and the elderly – may experience symptoms like coughing, shortness of breath or eye, nose and throat irritation.
Dr Richard Wall, Medical Officer of Health for the National Public Health Service says exposure to smoke can worsen pre-existing health conditions such as heart and lung disease.
“People affected by the smoke should close windows and doors and reduce outdoor exercise”.
Dr Wall said residents on a roof water tank supply were advised to disconnect the pipe to their tank if a lot of ash and debris was falling to avoid water becoming contaminated.
“Only reconnect the water supply after the next heavy rain (discarding the ‘first flush’), to avoid getting ash in your drinking water.”
The experience of being exposed to an event like a fire can be distressing and it’s normal to feel anxious in situations like this. If you are feeling anxious or just need someone to talk to, you can call or text 1737 any time and you can speak to (or text) a trained counsellor free of charge or call Healthline on 0800 611 116.
If you see or smell smoke outside, you should stay inside if it is safe to do so.
Remember to:
- Keep your windows and doors shut
- Switch your air conditioning to ‘recirculate’
- Air out your house when the smoke clears
- Look out for children, older people, and others at risk
- Keep pets inside with clean water and food. Keep pets’ bedding inside if possible.
- Roof water supply: Disconnect the pipe to your tank if there is ash and debris on your roof, and only reconnect after the next heavy rain to avoid getting ash in your drinking water.
For information about the fire visit the Fire and Emergency New Zealand website
Media contact: hnzmedia@health.govt.nz
