The Weekend Sun is running a series of eight ‘Summer Smart’ stories with our good friend Elfie the Circus Elf helping us out to keep safe and healthy these Christmas holidays. Today’s Summer Smart #7 is on staying safe around barbecues and campfires.

Summer and fire go hand in hand – whether it’s firing up the barbecue for a classic Kiwi cook-up or gathering around a campfire on a starry night.

But fire safety is no joke, especially during summer months in Tauranga. Each year, careless fire use causes serious injuries, property damage, and sadly, even loss of life. A little awareness and preparation can keep your summer safe and smoke-free.

It’s important to know the rules and check for any fire bans and restrictions.

During dry spells, Fire and Emergency New Zealand often declares fire bans across the region to reduce wildfire risk.

Check before you light up, as fire bans can cover barbecues, open fires, and even gas appliances.

Visit: www.fireandemergency.nz or local council websites for up-to-date information. Remember ignorance of the ban is not an excuse.

For barbecue safety tips, remember to always use your barbecue on a stable, non-flammable surface away from fences, plants and homes. Keep a bucket of water, hose or fire extinguisher nearby – especially if you’re using charcoal or wood. Never leave your barbecue unattended. Allow charcoal or wood to fully cool before disposal in a metal bin and avoid wearing loose or flammable clothing while cooking.

Caution with campfires is important. Remember to use designated fire pits or fireplaces only and keep fires small and manageable. Clear the area around the fire of flammable debris like leaves or dry grass, keep water or a shovel handy to extinguish embers, and never leave a campfire unattended – not even for a minute. Afterwards, even on the beach, fully extinguish fires with water and stir ashes until cold before leaving. Make sure not to leave nails or other items that could hurt people or animals.

Before lighting a gas barbecue or heater, remember to check your gas bottle and connections for leaks. A soapy water test works well for this. Store bottles upright, away from heat sources and don’t take risks but replace any damaged hoses or fittings.

If a fire breaks out, don’t try to fight a large or fast-moving fire yourself. Call 111 immediately and evacuate calmly and quickly if instructed. Follow advice from Fire and Emergency NZ and local authorities.

Remember to be a good neighbour this summer. Summer conditions mean your fire could easily spread to nearby homes, native bush, or farmland. Keep your neighbours and environment safe by taking fire bans seriously and practising safe fire use.

One careless spark can turn a summer day into a disaster so stay alert and stay safe. This summer, make safety the main ingredient at your barbecue or campfire. Your vigilance keeps our community and beautiful Bay of Plenty landscapes protected for everyone to enjoy.

*The Weekend Sun gives special thanks to Circus in a Flash Ltd - We bring the Circus to you for bringing this series to life.