Many areas of New Zealand experience bushfire in Spring and Summer. If you’re driving anywhere during bushfire season, it’s a good idea to be remain aware of alerts in the area you’re in so you can stay safe and equip your vehicle appropriately.
Prepare your vehicle
If you drive in bushfire-prone areas, prepare your vehicle now.
- Keep 100% woollen blankets in your car – they can protect against flames if necessary
- Ensure your vehicle and all lights (headlights, indicators, hazard lights, brake lights) are in good working condition – keep your vehicle servicing up-to-date
- Keep your fuel tank filled – conditions may require you to change routes or travel further to avoid fire conditions
- Keep water and a first aid kit within your vehicle at all times – for use in case of emergency
Driving
It’s important to know what to do if you find yourself driving in an area threatened by bushfire. Drivers are strongly advised to avoid any areas affected by fires and monitor conditions as they can change quickly.
If you see smoke across the road, stop and assess the situation before driving through it.
Being prepared, staying aware of your surroundings, and remaining calm in an emergency are the best ways to stay safe around bushfires.
Staying safe on the road around bushfires
- Follow the advice of the Rural Fire Service and Police
- Listen to the local radio for updates on fire conditions in your area and check live traffic reports for updates on road closures
- Avoid driving in areas where controlled burning and bushfires are burning
- You should only drive during a bushfire as a last resort or if instructed to do so
- Turn your headlights on – smoke from fires makes it harder for other drivers to see your car
- Ensure your car has plenty of water and fuel and that you have plenty of drinking water
- If you stop your car to plan your trip or a safe exit from the bushfire area, park well off the road and turn your hazard lights on
If you’re caught in the path of a bushfire
- Stay in your car
- Turn the engine off
- Find a clearing – park away from dense bush
- Park behind a barrier such as a wall or rocky outcrop
- Park off roadways and turn your hazard lights on – poor visibility can cause car crashes
- Stay in your car, close the windows, doors and air vents
- Shut all the vents and air-conditioning off
- Cover up with woollen blankets and make sure you are below window level
- Drink water to make sure that you do not become dehydrated
Know who to call
- In life threatening situations call 000 (Triple Zero)
- If you have a “Find my phone” feature on your phone, make sure it’s turned on
- Contact Custom Fleet if your vehicle is damaged or destroyed in a bushfire
