Have a kōrero for a safe and happy holiday

Published: 15/12/2023 | Risk reduction | National

No matter how you’re spending your summer holidays with friends and whānau, share some fire safety wisdom to keep everyone safe. Whether you’re firing up the BBQ or taking the fam to the bach (or your backyard caravan!), here’s what you should keep an eye on:

Christmas pressies with Lithium-ion batteries

Lithium-ion batteries are used in a lot of the presents people buy each other for Christmas, including toys, tools, devices, and phones
It’s important to take care when using these batteries as they are a fire risk when not stored, charged, used, or disposed of correctly
Make sure you charge them on a hard, flat surface, not under a pillow, on a bed or couch as they can overheat and cause a fire
If you notice anything unusual with your battery, stop using it straight away.

BBQs

Check your BBQ for gas leaks using the soapy water test
Save the beers for after the BBQ and get takeaways or use a microwave for a feed when you come back from the Christmas function. For some inspiration, check out our selection of dishes easy (and safe) enough to cook that don’t require an oven or a stovetop at https://www.fireandemergency.nz/yourecooked/(external link)

Holiday away from home

Make sure all sleeping areas have a working smoke alarm
If your door has a deadlock, leave the key in so people can escape quickly
Keep exits clear
Have an agreed safe meeting place and make sure any guests know where this is, and how to escape in the event of a fire. Go to escapeplanner.co.nz to make an escape plan for your home.

Camp fires

If it is windy and hot, think twice about lighting a fire
If there is an open fire season, you can light fires without a permit. A restricted fire season requires a permit for most activities and a prohibited season means no open-air fires
Check if it’s alright to light a fire at https://www.checkitsalright.nz/(external link)

Fireworks

We urge people not to stockpile fireworks this Guy Fawkes - particularly with the approaching El Niño weather conditions that could lead to hotter, drier and windier conditions in many parts of Aotearoa
There may also be restrictions on the use of fireworks in your area during summer, so it’s important to check if these have been put in place at www.checkitsalright.nz(external link)

For more information, reach out to the National Community Readiness and Recovery team CRR@fireandemergency.nz