Enjoy outdoors responsibly this summer

STATE environment authorities are reminding summer campers to stay safe and look after their surroundings this season.

Conservation Regulator Victoria and Forest Fire Management Victoria said public land rules around fire, rubbish, and road and track use were important to protect the state’s environment and community safety.

Around 10 per cent of Victorian bushfires are started by illegal campfires, including unattended fires, and authorised officers have detected 70 ignored fires since the start of November.

Authorities say campers should always check weather and fire conditions before lighting a fire, keep a bucket of water handy and use purpose-built fireplaces or trenches in state forests.

Visitors to state forests should also take out any anything they bring in, including rubbish, while four-wheel-drive and trail-bike users should stick to established roads and tracks to prevent erosion and protect native vegetation.

State authorities will petrol sites across the state ensuring people enjoy their recreational activities responsibly and issuing penalties were necessary.

“The festive period is a great time to spend in the bush and we want all visitors to be happy and safe,” the regulator’s Ash Bruce said.

“We are already seeing thousands of people exploring parks and forests and while most people are doing the right thing, not following these key public land rules risks the safety of all visitors and the environment.”