Restrictions on fire permits

Fire danger readings in the Western Bay of Plenty are in the 'Very High' to 'Extreme' range,  prompting the Western Bay Moana Rural Fire Authority to impose restrictions on fire permit issues.

Principal Rural Fire Officer Barry Low says that this action is short of a total fire ban, however, no permits will be issued for fires that are not considered absolutely necessary. This includes camp-fires, bonfires, household and garden rubbish fires.  

'Before applying for a fire permit' says Barry 'ask yourself, is it vital that this material be burned now? Is there any reason why it can't wait until fire danger lessens?'

Where a permit is approved and issued for a land management fire, it will be valid for a period of three or four days only.   

Those who do light permitted fires should ensure that all permit conditions are complied with, that the fire is kept to a manageable size, and that extra care is taken.  

In particular, the fire must be attended at all times.