March 9 2010

Summer finally arriving and bringing hot temperatures and drying conditions throughout most of Canterbury, means the rural fire risk has risen significantly.

Earlier rainfall throughout the region led to a very good growing season, with plenty of vegetation now drying off and providing an excellent fuel source for fires.

"Right now, everything is drying out and the risk of fires starting and becoming large fires is very high," Tony Teeling, spokesperson for the Canterbury Rural Fire Co-ordinating Committee, said.

"We are asking Cantabrians to take special care during this time to ensure they do not inadvertently start a fire."

Fire restrictions are in place in Mid Canterbury, while other parts of the area are under more strict regulations.

Central and southern areas of the high country and parts of Banks Peninsula are presently in total fire ban. In those areas no fires in the open air are allowed.

This includes the likes of fireworks and flying lanterns, as well as all solid fuel cooking appliances.

Farmers are being asked to take special care as harvesting was still under way.

They needed to clear out any birds' nests or debris from equipment, have fire extinguishers on hand if operating machinery in dry conditions and if burning crop residues, follow the rules set out by the fire authority and check the weather forecast, in particular the wind conditions.

Residents are reminded to contact their local rural fire authority for information on fire restrictions, take special care with outdoor activities that generate heat or sparks, keep a five to 10-metre space free of combustible material around houses and outbuildings, and clean rain gutters and downspouts, as well as removing dead plants and debris from sections.

People should also cut lawns and paddocks around buildings during cooler conditions, and water where permitted. They should also connect a garden hose for immediate use and signpost water supplies and provide clear access routes.

Fire restrictions are now in force throughout most of the Canterbury region and fires may not be lit in the open without a permit.

In Mid Canterbury there are exceptions to this, including burning of crop residues subject to specific rules. Barbecues and hangis are subject to special conditions and must be kept in areas with a high-pressure water supply.

Fire permits are considered on a case-by-case basis by the local rural fire authority, usually at the city or district council.

The Department of Conservation has fire restrictions on its land all year round and a fire permit is always required.