It may be known as ‘Bonfire Night’ in the UK but Queenstown Lakes District Council’s principal rural fire officer Gordon Bailey is reminding local Guy Fawkes revellers that residential areas are a bonfire free zone. 

Mr Bailey says while Guy Fawkes Night offers a great opportunity to get together with family and friends everyone needs to keep safety in mind. 

“Bonfire’s are great fun but unfortunately it creates a fire risk in built up communities so people will have to settle for fireworks,” he said. 

Bonfires can be enjoyed in rural areas but you will need a permit, which can be a easily obtained from Council. 

Mr Bailey also asked people to use fireworks safely. 

“Watch for kids, animals, dry vegetation and trees,” he said. ‘Make sure you light them in a wide open area well away from anything that could catch fire. Keep a hose or a bucket of water handy.” 

More information on rural fire permits can be found at www.qldc.govt.nz. Advice on fireworks safety can be found at the New Zealand Fire Service website  www.fire.org.nz 

ENDS 

For more information, please contact QLDC principal rural fire officer Gordon Bailey on 03 441 0499

 

 

By: Jo Blick