Campers are reminded to exercise safe campfire practices this summer.
With more than 720 unattended campfires and BBQs detected during the last financial year, the Conservation Regulator, Parks Victoria, and Forest Fire Management Victoria will be increasing patrols of authorised officers to ensure compliance with fire safety regulations.
Before lighting a fire, campers are reminded to check the weather, current fire restrictions, and any designated rules of the site.
When lighting a fire, campers must ensure that it is built within a trench at least 30cm deep, does not exceed one square metre, that the three metres above and around the fire is clear of flammable material, and that branches and logs on the fire are no longer than one metre. Fires must also never be left unattended.
Campfires must be extinguished with at least 10 litres of water every time campers leave the site. Only when the remains of the campfire, including coals, are cool to touch, is it safe to leave.
Chief Conservation Regulator Kate Gavens emphasised the importance of adhering to regulations.
“Campfires are a cause of bushfires that are 100 per cent preventable,” she said.
“Ensure you know the rules and are up to date on weather conditions before you light any fire. Your fire is your responsibility.”
Fines for breaching regulations can exceed $19,000, with the maximum penalty for lighting or maintaining a fire during a Total Fire Ban a fine of $46,154 and/or two years in jail.
