New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union members will stop work today, Monday, February 23, from 12pm to 1pm.

Fire and Emergency says it will continue to answer 111 calls and respond to fires in affected areas during that hour.

In cities and larger towns, response times to some emergencies may be longer than usual.

More than 11,000 volunteers remain available to respond from almost 600 stations across the country and in their own trucks.

Fire and Emergency is asking households and workplaces to be prepared.

Businesses are urged to be careful around any work practices that could result in fire.

Building owners are asked to make sure tenants understand their evacuation schemes and procedures.

People are advised to check if their area is affected by the industrial strike action.

Safety reminders include:

• Do not leave cooking unattended.
• If there is a fire, get out, stay out and call 111.
• Have a three-step escape plan with working smoke alarms, two ways out and a safe meeting place.
• At work, know your building evacuation plan. If the alarm sounds, exit and assemble at your meeting place.
• Delay lighting fires or any outdoor activities that create heat or sparks.

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