Fire and Emergency New Zealand launch new online tool to help public easily identify fire risks
19 Dec, 2020 11:30 PM
3 minutes to read
A forestry fire in the current dry conditions in the Bay of Plenty could devastate not only land, native bush, and wildlife - but could impact the country s economy.
That was one of the reasons Bay of Plenty Fire and Emergency regional manager David Guard said it was vital to be vigilant around everyday activities.
This comes as Fire and Emergency New Zealand launched its new online tool to help the public easily see the fire risks associated with activities they might do this summer.
Minister of Internal Affairs Jan Tinetti says it will also allow people to make sure they are permitted to light fires or whether a permit they have still exists at the time.
They ve also launched a new wildfire prevention campaign using native birds as ambassadors to illustrate the wildlife that s at stake.
Last summer wildfires destroyed over 10,000 hectares of native bird habitat. It s very clear that no matter where you are in the country the risk is always there, Guard says.
Wildfires this year have already devastated some communities.
The Lake Ohau fire destroyed 5000 hectares and 48 buildings, melting water tanks and destroying power and water systems.
Devastating impact : New online tool helps to understand fire risks to prevent more damage this summer Newshub 19/12/2020 Juliet Speedy
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A new online tool to help understand fire risks around the country was launched on Saturday.
The Government says it s in part a response to climate change which means fires are a growing threat in New Zealand.
It s scenes like what was seen in Christchurch s Port Hills this past week that Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) wants to see less of.
But they re not - because the fire season here is getting worse every year. It s starting sooner, lasting longer and firefighters wants Kiwis to wake up.