Rain results in Waikato District Council remaining in an open fire season

Media Release: Waikato District Council, 16 December 2014

Waikato District Council remains in an open fire season until further notice.

Waikato District Council will stay in an open fire season during at this stage, due to the large amount of rain over the last month.

An open fire season means fires can be lit in the open air, with no requirement for a permit.

Principal Rural Fire Officer Gordon Bailey points out even though a permit is not required at this stage, extreme care must still be taken.

“If you’re lighting a fire, make sure you consider your neighbours, and remember you are responsible for the fire and will be held accountable if the fire escapes your control.”

“Special attention should be given to areas in the district where peat soil exists, as this is where fires can become deep-seated and difficult to extinguish”.

Mr Bailey is urging people who need to light fires to do so in a responsible manner, ensuring they are safe, and won’t spread. He also encouraged residents to use the open season as an opportunity to carry out safe burns, to reduce the need for fire during the hotter months.