Good growth lifts fire potential

Otago Rural Fire Authority deputy principal rural fire officer Bobby Lamont reminds people of the...
Otago Rural Fire Authority deputy principal rural fire officer Bobby Lamont reminds people of the fire restrictions throughout Central Otago. PHOTO: ADAM BURNS
Fire and Emergency New Zealand is advising Central Otago residents to remain vigilant, despite a positive start to the summer fire season.

Unusually high rainfall in Central Otago has meant grass in the region is greener than usual.

Last month Alexandra had 62mm of rainfall, nearly 50mm more than its monthly average.

Central Otago deputy principal rural fire officer Bobby Lamont said the climate could lead to other issues during the remaining summer months.

"With the rain, we have had tremendous amount of growth which is a bit of a concern.

`With things starting to dry out, the amount of available fuel is going to be quite high.

"There will be potential for a decent fire."

Both the Central Otago and Queenstown Lakes regions entered a restricted fire season on December 31.

Permits are required to light fires.

Mr Lamont said February could be a "busy month", following a relatively quiet Christmas and New Year period.

He had been impressed with how watchful Central Otago residents had been over the fire season.

"The community awareness I have found around Central has been pretty good.

"Everyone is making an effort to keep an eye on things and look out for each other, which is awesome."

More information on fire permits and tips during the fire season can be found at www.checkitsalright.nz

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