Fire and Emergency New Zealand is urging people to take extra care with fireworks this year after crews responded to 166 callouts last year, the highest number of fireworks-related fires since 2019.

National Manager for Community Readiness and Recovery Adrian Nacey said nine of those incidents were structure fires.

“All these incidents put communities and our firefighters at risk and create an additional workload for our crews,” he said.

Nacey said people needed to be especially careful given the recent high winds across parts of the country.

“While there has been a fair bit of rain around across parts of the country, things do dry out quickly at this time of year and as we’ve seen over the last couple of weeks, the current conditions will certainly enable fires to spread and get out of control very fast,” he said.

Fire and Emergency is encouraging people to attend public fireworks displays instead of lighting their own.

“Our preference is always that fireworks are best left in the hands of the professionals,” Nacey said.

“But if you are going to light fireworks, you should always check the conditions first by heading to www.checkitsalright.nz.

“Do not light fireworks if it is windy and make sure you have a safe setup when lighting your fireworks. Light them in a wide open space, away from anything that could catch fire and have a bucket of water or hose nearby.

“Check you have the landowner’s permission and remember that many public spaces have fireworks bans in place. This includes most council managed parks and beaches.”

He said people should ensure their fireworks are pointed at the sky, not at people, pets or homes.

“Let your neighbours know if you are planning to set off fireworks and keep your pets inside,” he said.

“Lastly, dispose of your fireworks safely and soak them in water before you throw them out.”

Nacey reminded the public they are responsible for any fires they cause.

“Causing or allowing a fire to get out of control and spread to vegetation or property is an offence that can carry significant penalties,” he said.

He also warned against stockpiling fireworks for the summer months.

“This is when the weather is much hotter, windier and drier, and the fire risk is much higher.”

More information about fire safety and fireworks can be found at www.checkitsalright.nz.