Residents advised to take precautions to manage fire risk
Waimakariri residents are being warned to prepare for the fire season, with hot, dry days posing an increased fire risk over the summer months.
Waimakariri District Council and Fire and Emergency New Zealand (Fenz) are urging residents to be aware of fire dangers, in spite of recent rain, as conditions can change rapidly.
Fenz principal rural fire officer Bruce Janes said it was very likely there would be fires in the district over the summer period, as seen in previous years.
"Don't be fooled by all the rain and cooler temperatures. All that moisture means lots of growth [and], when summer does decide to show, it will rapidly dry off and become a lot of available fuel for any wild fire that may come along," he said.
"When you're working on your property or in the garden, keep machinery well maintained to reduce potential sparks, and mow lawns in cooler conditions.
"You should also assess the risk of fire to your property and get rid of any shrubs, long grass or trees near your home which could burn easily. Having an escape plan for your family and pets is also vital."
The warning comes as scientists and academics caution that the 2017 Port Hills fires "could become the norm that New Zealand fire agencies have to deal with", and criticise agencies for paying "lip service to lessons learned".
The Fenz website (www.fireandemergency.nz) has important information about how to reduce fire risk.
Long grass or any other fire hazard can be reported to Fenz online at www.fireandemergency.nz....
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
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77.2% Yes
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21.2% No
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1.5% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
TV 1 last night.
Did any body watch A Remarkable Place to Die last night?
Did I miss something at the end as it went straight to the next program after the adds.with no finish
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