As the days grew shorter and the chill settled over our beautiful community, the Lake Ōkāreka Volunteer Fire Brigade remained vigilant. While our winter was relatively quiet, we stood ready to respond whenever our neighbours needed us. Here’s a brief recap of our recent incidents.
On three occasions, fierce weather has swept through our community, leaving fallen trees in its wake, in one incident on Acacia Road, soil and vegetation succumbed to the elements, blocking the road. Call 111 and ask for the fire brigade if you ever encounter a similar situation. If there is a large amount of debris once you’ve called 111, call Rotorua Council Tree Removal on 07 348 4199. Save this number in your phone; the quicker resources arrive, the faster the road will be cleared.
On three occasions, fierce weather has swept through our community, leaving fallen trees in its wake, in one incident on Acacia Road, soil and vegetation succumbed to the elements, blocking the road. Call 111 and ask for the fire brigade if you ever encounter a similar situation. If there is a large amount of debris once you’ve called 111, call Rotorua Council Tree Removal on 07 348 4199. Save this number in your phone; the quicker resources arrive, the faster the road will be cleared.
In an unexpected turn of events, a small fire broke out in the Lake Tikitapu Boat Ramp Toilets. The culprit? A misbehaving light fitting! Erin swiftly contained the blaze, ensuring this essential facility remains operational for visitors. Remember, fire safety matters everywhere—even in the most unexpected places.
In July, we responded to a medical event on the edge of our community. To all medical professionals in Lake Ōkāreka, we encourage you to download the GoodSAM app. It’s a powerful tool that connects medical professionals with those in need, bridging the gap until an ambulance arrives. I can offer training, equipment, education, and support for using the app.
In July, we responded to a medical event on the edge of our community. To all medical professionals in Lake Ōkāreka, we encourage you to download the GoodSAM app. It’s a powerful tool that connects medical professionals with those in need, bridging the gap until an ambulance arrives. I can offer training, equipment, education, and support for using the app.
Phil Muldoon was involved in another five-week deployment to Canada, but this time, it was in Alberta. He was part of a twenty-one-person contingent that arrived in Edmonton, Alberta, on Tuesday, 30th July. His crew worked on multiple fires, including one located 23km north of Worsley, which was approximately 12,000ha, a second 80ha fire 54km to the west, a third 15ha fire straddling the border with British Columbia, and the fourth 160ha fire near Grande Prairie.
In total, 5.3 million hectares (13.1 million acres) have burned to date in 2024, according to the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre, and more than 600 fires are still raging across the country, mainly in British Columbia, as of the end of September. The 2024 wildfire season ranks among the top six in the last 50 years.
In total, 5.3 million hectares (13.1 million acres) have burned to date in 2024, according to the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre, and more than 600 fires are still raging across the country, mainly in British Columbia, as of the end of September. The 2024 wildfire season ranks among the top six in the last 50 years.
Community Support and Preparedness
Our brigade has recently lost multiple members who have moved out of Rotorua. We currently have just enough members to cover the vehicles. If you’d like to contribute to our brigade or learn more about our work, please contact me on 027 777 5130. And don’t forget to join us for our next community open day—because camaraderie and community go hand in hand!
As we move into spring, let’s celebrate our dedicated volunteers and their commitment to looking after Lake Ōkāreka. Remember, emergencies can happen anytime, so stay informed, stay prepared, and know that your fire brigade is just a call away.
Thank you for being part of our tight-knit community. Together, we make Lake Ōkāreka a safer place for all.
Kierin Oppatt - Chief Fire Officer
Lake Ōkāreka Volunteer Fire Brigade
027 777 5130 or [email protected]
As we move into spring, let’s celebrate our dedicated volunteers and their commitment to looking after Lake Ōkāreka. Remember, emergencies can happen anytime, so stay informed, stay prepared, and know that your fire brigade is just a call away.
Thank you for being part of our tight-knit community. Together, we make Lake Ōkāreka a safer place for all.
Kierin Oppatt - Chief Fire Officer
Lake Ōkāreka Volunteer Fire Brigade
027 777 5130 or [email protected]
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