The fire danger around Southland and Otago is likely to increase tomorrow (September 9) with the arrival of predicted gale force winds across the regions.

Last week strong winds fanned many fires across Otago, keeping firefighters busy.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand is asking people who have burnt in the last two months to check old burn sites to ensure the fire is out. Turn the area over, ensure there is no heat left and apply water until the area is cold to touch. A small amount of heat in an old fire site can re-ignite and winds transport embers into surrounding vegetation.

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Although Otago has had some rain, frosts, warm days and wind have dried tussock, grasses and other light material, making it very easy to ignite. People need to be extra careful and think about what they are doing.

Fire Managers are asking people to be responsible and refrain from lighting fires until conditions ease. 

Spring brings with its equinoctial winds (seasonal winds), blowing away the cold wintery weather and ushering in warmer summer days. During this period of change, an increase in wind events is experienced, leading to changeable fire danger.

Fire and Emergency NZ says people should check the forecast before burning and ensure no strong winds are predicted for the following 48 hours after burning. 

Having a safe distance from other flammable material such as hedges, forest blocks and buildings, will also keep your fire safe.

"The size of the pile influences how the fire will behave. It can be tempting to burn a large pile. A large pile means a large amount of fuel. The more fuel, the hotter the burn, the less control you have. Small fires are easier to control or put out and have less residual burning which reduces the chances of a flare-up," Fire and Emergency NZ says.