All fires are now banned in Hawke's Bay as tinder dry conditions increase the risk. Principal rural fire officer Trevor Mitchell said the total fire ban kicked in at midday on Monday. John Hawkins A total fire ban is in place across Hawke's BayHe said recent fires in the area were examples of why people needed to be extra vigilant in the very hot and dry conditions. "That spark can come from a site of a historic controlled burn, power lines sagging into vegetation or equipment such as tractor mowers, lawnmowers, grinders, welding or even a plough. He warned people to also look out for power lines sagging into vegetation and check electric fences for any shorts.

Source: Stuff February 10, 2020 04:41 UTC