Key Takeaways
- Firework bans have been issued at two visitor destinations in South Canterbury, effective from December 15
- The temporary bans cover the Mackenzie Basin and the area around Lake Clearwater
- The bans are in place until March 31, 2026, for the Mackenzie Basin and February 10 for Lake Clearwater
- Fire and Emergency New Zealand reports that 98% of New Zealand’s wildfires are started by people
- The firework bans are an annual fixture in these areas due to the high risk of wildfires during the summer months
Introduction to Firework Bans
Firework bans have been issued at two popular visitor destinations in South Canterbury, as firefighters prepare for the summer season. The temporary bans, which took effect from Monday, December 15, cover the Mackenzie Basin and the area around Lake Clearwater. This measure is part of ongoing efforts to reduce the risk of wildfires over the summer, and it is an annual fixture in these areas due to the high risk of wildfires during this time.
Reasons for Firework Bans
According to District Commander Rob Hands, 98% of New Zealand’s wildfires are started by people, making human activity a significant contributor to the risk of wildfires. The Mackenzie Basin and the area around Lake Clearwater are particularly vulnerable to wildfires due to their dry and windy climate, natural vegetation, and topography. Setting off fireworks is a highly risky activity during the summer months, when vegetation is tinder dry and outdoor fires can be challenging for firefighters to bring under control. Hands emphasized that it only takes one spark to start a wildfire, and therefore, visitors are advised to leave their fireworks at home this summer.
Implementation of Firework Bans
Signage will be installed over the next few days to remind people not to let off any fireworks in the affected areas. Posters will be placed in campgrounds and shops to raise awareness about the firework bans. Although the MacKenzie Basin is currently in an open-fire season, meaning that a permit is not needed to light an open fire, anyone planning to light a fire in the open still needs to do it safely and with consideration for others. The temporary fireworks ban for the Mackenzie Basin will be in place until March 31, 2026, while the Lake Clearwater ban will end on February 10.
Importance of Fire Safety
Hands stressed that while some parts of the countryside may still appear green, locals know how quickly conditions can change given a few warm and windy days. Therefore, it is essential to take precautions to prevent wildfires, especially during the summer months. By putting the firework ban in place now, when visitor numbers are starting to increase, Fire and Emergency New Zealand aims to have a consistent approach throughout the summer. This measure will help reduce the risk of wildfires and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors to the Mackenzie Basin and the area around Lake Clearwater.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the firework bans issued at the Mackenzie Basin and the area around Lake Clearwater are a necessary measure to reduce the risk of wildfires during the summer months. By raising awareness about the risks associated with fireworks and taking steps to prevent them, Fire and Emergency New Zealand can help prevent devastating wildfires and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors to these popular destinations. It is essential for visitors to understand the risks and take responsibility for their actions to prevent wildfires, and by leaving their fireworks at home, they can play a crucial role in preventing these disasters.