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Safer Communities
safercommunities
Fire Safety, Your Safety, Home Safety
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Last month was a tragic month in New Zealand, with 4 people dying in residential property fires due to smoke-related incidents. Please ensure you have working smoke detectors and, if you need support or advice with the placement of smoke detectors, you can ring the nearest fire station – we are happy to assist.
Photoelectric smoke alarms can be the price of a cup coffee at the local café; so, for less than $6, you can invest in your safety and the safety of those who live under your roof – in particular, the young and elderly.
Spring and Summer
With spring and summer soon to arrive, Auckland City Council has strict rules around cleaner air and fire safety. The last thing we enjoy doing is putting out rubbish fires, so please be aware of the Council regulations.
Lighting outdoor fires in the urban and rural fire areas are not exempt from regulations and/or permits. If you are unsure, please check with the local Council before you light the fire.
In the local urban area, the following fires are permitted:
Cooking: BBQs, wood-fired pizza and pizza ovens; and Ethnic cooking fires, Hangi or umu. However, if you have a cultural cooking fire, please call your local fire station, let us know and we will make this a notified event. Heating: Outdoor fireplaces and braziers.
Please note these fires must not create a nuisance – smoke, ash or smell must not travel to neighbouring properties.
Fires that are not allowed at any time in the urban or residential areas: • Fires burning rubbish or garden waste; • Fires that create offensive smell or smoke; and • The burning of wet or painted wood and, in particular, treated wood.
Please ensure that the location of the fire is 3metres from any fences, trees or buildings. Take into account the wind conditions and day light hours. It is always sensible to have a hose nearby – just in case.
Allow us to get through
When you see an emergency service vehicle please pull over and allow us to pass safely. Increased traffic, in particular around peak travel times, does cause issues and delays. If you need any fires safety information, please ring the local fire station.
