Warning for Aussie families going camping ahead of the King's birthday long weekend
Even though it's getting cold, some risks are heightened. Found out how to stay safe and avoid fines of up to $47,000.
It's important to know the rules around campfires, as mistakes can be devastating for the environment and very costly for the camper. Source: Getty
A warning has been issued for those planning to get away this long weekend. For many Aussies, public holidays go hand-in-hand with a trip away, but those heading outdoors to spend a couple of nights under the stars are being urged to stay alert.
Now that it is officially winter, it may feel like the fire risk has passed – but authorities in one state are reminding campers that many parks and forests remain dry, meaning bush fire risk is still very real and present.
In parts of western, southwestern and southeastern Victoria, a warmer and drier-than-average autumn has led to a higher fire risk than usual.
Forest Fire Management Victoria Chief Fire Officer Chris Hardman said campfires can quickly become devastating bushfires.
Authorities warn that even though the temperatures have dropped, the fire risk is actually heightened. Source: Forest Fire Management Victoria
'Even at this time of year, just one unattended or poorly managed campfire can cause serious damage to the environment and put lives and property at risk,' Mr Hardman said.
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'This season, we've responded to more than 370 incidents involving campfires. This included the Boroka Lookout Fire, where an illegal campfire turned into a bushfire in difficult terrain, on the edge of the cliff diverting resources responding to bushfires in the Grampians National Park.
'With a little extra care around your campfire this long weekend, we can keep forests and parks healthy and safe for everyone to enjoy.'
He added an important tip, reminding campers to never leave a campfire unattended and always use water to extinguish it.
If it's cool to touch, it's safe to leave.Forest Fire Management Victoria Chief Fire Officer Chris Hardman
Rangers will be patrolling the state's parks and forests on the lookout for any illegal campfires and rule flouters this long weekend.
So what are the rules?
You can light a campfire anywhere in a state forest if it is safe to do so
No fires allowed on Total Fire Ban Days
If it is hot and windy, reconsider if you really need to light a fire
Fireplaces need to be either purpose-built by the land manager or in a hole in the ground at least 30cm deep
Clear at least 3 metres around the fire of anything that could burn, like leaves, tents, clothing etc.
Keep your fire and all logs under 1 metre across
Never leave a fire unattended
Fully extinguish a fire before going to bed or leaving the campsite – even for a short period of time
Only use water to put out a campfire. Ashes can stay hot underneath dirt and soil, and can reignite days later
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Anyone found breaking the rules in Victorian public land face a maximum penalty of $19,759 if the matter goes to court. Lighting a fire on a Total Fire Ban day can land you a seriously big $47,421.60 fine and two years in jail.
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