A prohibited fire season has been declared for Manawat≈´, Rangitikei and Palmerston North districts. The change in fire season is effective from 8am tomorrow, Wednesday, February 12.
Principal rural fire officer Bradley Shanks says all fire permits are suspended in those areas while the prohibited fire season is in place.
"A prohibited fire season means no fires are permitted as the fire danger is too high," Bradley says.
"During a prohibited fire season only gas and charcoal barbeques can be used.
"The fire on Brandon Hall and Pukepapa roads over the weekend is an example of why people need to be extra careful in these hot and dry conditions."
In these extreme conditions it only takes a spark to start a devastating wildfire. That spark can come from a site of a historic controlled burn or equipment such as a lawnmower, grinder, welding or even a plough.
It is vitally important that people understand these risks and take precautions.
"If anyone has had a controlled burn in the past two months, please check it is fully extinguished as these have the potential to flare up," says Bradley.
Horowhenua District will remain in a restricted fire season meaning they still need to take caution and apply for a fire permit.
