Waitemata - Fire and Emergency

🔥 Cool ash before you stash 🔥

As chimneys fire up across Waitematā to keep our whānau warm, remember: fireplace ash can stay hot enough to start a fire for days.

🪵 Before you dispose of ash:
✅ Let it cool for at least 5 days
✅ Use a metal container with a lid
✅ Keep it well away from anything that can burn
🚫 Never use plastic bins, bags, or boxes
Hot embers can reignite and cause serious fires.

👉 Cool it. Store it. Dispose of it safely.

Missed our Winter Warmer testing events? ❄️🔥

You can still do a quick safety check at home to make sure your electric blanket is safe to use this winter. Just follow these three simple steps (more info in the pics):

1. The easy look – check for any obvious damage
2. Take a closer look – inspect the cords and connections
3. Hotspot test – plug it in and check for any hotspots after 15 minutes

If you notice damage, frayed cords, scorch marks, hotspots, or anything unusual, stop using the blanket immediately and replace it.

A few quick checks can help keep you and your whānau warm and fire safe this winter.