In reply to P Otway's letter (The Weekend Sun, January 24, page 27), he disputes some figures.

He says only three people in Australia have been charged with fire-related offences.

I've seen a breakdown of the police records from each State (available online) and there have actually been more than 200 people dealt with by police in all states (2019), except Victoria, (no figures available).

These are for reckless and deliberate lighting of fires, not necessary arson.

As far as CO2 emissions go, it depends on what scientists you believe when figures are studied.

I'm no scientist, but from all the information I've seen and listened to, yes, CO2 levels have risen, and they have before, but how much is because of human activity is very much debatable.

Without CO2 the earth would be an entirely different place and we would not exist.

So, this climate change emergency or whatever other label it has, will go on for some time yet. Humans love to blame something for anything out of the ordinary.

In the meantime, enjoy the warmer weather and keep your garden watered, get your firewood in the shed as this coming winter is predicted to be cooler than normal.

P Kelly, Te Puna.