Fireworks ban implemented by Otago LAC in high-risk areas

Ban on private fireworks in Otago high-risk areas

As reported by Fire and Emergency New Zealand, a ban on the private use of fireworks in several high-risk areas across Otago has been enacted.

The decision was influenced by the Otago Local Advisory Committee (LAC), formed four years ago to guide Fire and Emergency New Zealand on community risks.

The restrictions were introduced in late 2022 following concerns from residents about the dangers posed by fireworks in areas such as the Queenstown Red Zone, Mount Iron, and Albert Town Recreation Reserve.

Otago LAC chair Megan McPherson explained: “Basically, the social licence was running out with fireworks.”

She added that the Committee’s input played a key role in the decision, stating: “We pushed for this ban and Fire and Emergency took it seriously. It shows we have influence.”

Committee’s focus on ongoing community risks

Beyond fireworks, the Otago LAC continues to address other important community safety issues.

The Committee is currently drafting its latest Insights Report, which is expected to focus on sustainable volunteerism and the impacts of climate change.

These topics were highlighted in their previous report and remain a priority for the Committee.

“We have the networks into our communities,” said deputy chair Helen Algar.

She emphasised the Committee’s role in identifying specific vulnerabilities, particularly in culturally diverse, isolated, and climate-vulnerable communities.

The LAC aims to support the Fire and Emergency District team while maintaining a clear focus on its role.

Collaboration with Fire and Emergency New Zealand

The Otago LAC values its strong relationship with Fire and Emergency New Zealand, especially with the Community Risk Management team.

Cross-agency collaboration has been vital in enabling the Committee to contribute meaningfully to community safety efforts.

Algar noted: “Fire and Emergency has provided us with quite a unique mechanism to provide influence and insights back to the Board.”

She added that the effectiveness of this collaboration depends on how the Committee chooses to exercise its influence.

The future of the Otago LAC

The Otago LAC continues to evolve, with plans to further explore community risks and provide insights into emerging challenges.

Their partnership with Fire and Emergency New Zealand remains a key part of their strategy, ensuring that community concerns are addressed and that risks are managed effectively.

“The LAC aims to support the District team by identifying trends and key insights while keeping in our lane,” Algar said.

Fireworks ban implemented by Otago LAC in high-risk areas: summary

The Otago Local Advisory Committee (LAC) played a key role in enacting a ban on private fireworks in high-risk areas of Otago, including the Queenstown Red Zone and Mount Iron.

This decision, implemented in late 2022, was influenced by community concerns and supported by Fire and Emergency New Zealand.

The Committee is now focusing on other key risks such as sustainable volunteerism and climate change, continuing its collaboration with Fire and Emergency.

The Otago LAC aims to provide valuable insights on community vulnerabilities and remains dedicated to supporting the safety of the region’s residents.