Tinui live
wire fire
The Tinui Volunteer Fire Brigade has praised the actions of people who called in a smouldering tree earlier this week. Fire and Emergency [Fenz] said the Tinui and Masterton brigades responded to a fire caused by powerlines in the Tinui Valley shortly after 4.30pm on Wednesday. The Tinui brigade said the people calling the incident in acted safely and sensibly and gave “exceptionally accurate” information to Fenz. “They investigated a smell of smoke to find a tree branch smouldering on live wires,” the brigade posted on social media. The brigade said the scene was accessible by quadbikes only. “It was an hour’s wait for power to be isolated so we, along with Masterton career, could extinguish hot spots. Great outcome.”
Stay safe in
the outdoors
Wairarapa’s backyard, the Tararua Range, has had its fair share of accidents and fatalities. In anticipation of people hitting the hills over the summer, New Zealand Police and the Mountain Safety Council are reminding enthusiasts how to stay safe in the outdoors.
“For anyone headed outdoors, a registered distress beacon is the lifeline that can summon help to your location in a life-threatening situation. It could save your life or someone else’s.” The organisations also suggest using the app PlanMyWalk, which provides track alerts and delivers up-to-date Metservice information, as well as consulting a gear list. “Many people find themselves in situations where they’re underprepared and, especially if the weather turns or they get lost, find themselves without adequate protection from the elements. The weather can change quickly, so it’s better to be prepared. Extra food doesn’t hurt either.”
Curtain fire
Masterton Fire Brigade was called to a report of curtains on fire at a property in Solway yesterday. The call was received at midday, with two fire trucks responding. However, a spokesperson for Fire and Emergency said it was all lights and sirens, with the brigade finding the fire had been put out upon arrival.