“The district is drying out quickly and because of that extra care must be taken this week. Vegetation will burn quickly if it’s set on fire by fireworks,” he said.
Fire service national risk reduction manager Rob Saunders said 2006 was the last year before restrictions on fireworks sales took effect. Fireworks can only be sold for four days prior to Guy Fawkes, and only to those over 18. Sparklers must also be included in a wider assortment of fireworks.
“There are still too many fires and injuries caused by fireworks that are entirely preventable and we believe Kiwis can do much better,” Mr Saunders said.
Last year’s callouts around New Zealand included five house and garage fires over the Guy Fawkes period.
“They could have ended far more seriously,” he said.
“In those cases fireworks ignited trees or rubbish close to buildings and one fire even threatened a block of shops. Only a chance passerby prevented a tragedy.”
Gisborne fire authorities point again to restrictions on bonfires in the city and district.
“Permits are required for any fire in the open in the city at any time and no permits will be issued for bonfires,” a Gisborne District Council spokesman said.
“The only place for a bonfire in the city will be on the beachfront between Stanley Road and the green navigation beacon on Thursday night. Bonfires will also be allowed on the beach in Tolaga Bay, but no where else,” he said.
Mr Saunders said the fire service believed the best solution to fireworks problems was professionally run public fireworks displays.
“They are safer for communities as well as being better value for money.”
The Eastland Group Raceway starts its speedway season this Saturday night with the usual 'Fireworks Extravaganza'.
