Keep campfires under control this summer

THOSE camping in Victorian parks, reserves and forests are being urged to check conditions and brush up on campfire safety before heading out this summer.

Campers are reminded to act responsibly and be campfire-safe to prevent bushfires, with 726 unattended campfires and barbecues detected by Conservation Regulator, Parks Victoria and Forest Fire Operations field staff in the 2023-2024 financial year.

Patrols across Victoria’s public land will be increased by authorised officers to ensure campers are doing the right thing.

“We want people to get out and enjoy Victoria’s great outdoors, but unsafe campfires can have devastating consequences,” Parks Victoria manager enforcement operations Chris Mercier said.

“Don’t be the one to leave a campfire unattended or ignore park regulations – protect people, parks and the environment by taking responsibility for and practising bushfire safety.”

People often attempt to put out campfires using soil or not enough water, leaving them smouldering under soil for days and in the right conditions can reignite.

Campfires need to be extinguished with at least 10 litres of water, if remaining coals are cool to touch, it’s safe to leave.

Before lighting a fire, always check the fire restrictions and for any Total Fire Ban restrictions and ensure fires are always attended by an adult, staying within a 50-metre line of sight.

“Campfires are a cause of bushfires that are 100 per cent preventable,” Chief Conservation Regulator Kate Gavens said.

“Ensure you know the rules and are up to date on weather conditions before you light any fire. Your fire is your responsibility.”

Those found in breach of campfire regulations on public land face hefty fines.

Unattended campfires can be reported by phoning 136 186.

For more information and to keep up to date with restrictions, head to vic.gov.au/campfires-stoves-and-bbqs