EVEN though the nights remain cool at this time of the year, days can be warm and often windy and just one unattended, or poorly managed campfire can put lives and property at risk.
As Victorians venture into parks and forests this summer, the Conservation Regulator Victoria, CFA, Parks Victoria, and Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) are urging campers to check the VicEmergency website– especially the projected wind speeds.
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said another important reason to check the weather is to prevent serious bush fire threats to fauna and flora.
“Before heading out, campers must check the weather conditions and be aware of any Total Fire Bans in place,” he said.
“It’s essential to understand what is permitted at their destination to avoid putting people and the environment at risk.”
Acting Chief Fire Officer, Forest Fire Management Victoria Scott Turner reinforced the message and said fires that haven’t been properly extinguished have been known to smoulder under the soil for days only to reignite when warm and windy conditions arrive.
“We want everyone to enjoy their visit to our forests and parks, but if you have a campfire, it’s crucial that you put it out properly when you leave,” he said.
“Putting soil on top of a campfire does not extinguish it – you must use water.”
Campfire, stoves and BBQ rules are explained in an online article, available at vic.gov.au/campfires-stoves-and-bbqs
People who breach campfire regulations on public land face a maximum penalty of $19,759 if the matter is prosecuted in court.
The maximum penalty for lighting or maintaining a fire during a day of Total Fire Ban is $47,421.60 and/or two years in jail.
Concerned residents can report unattended campfires to the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) at 136 186 or call 000 to report a bushfire.
You can download the VicEmergency app by searching for “VicEmergency” in either the Apple App Store for iOS devices or Google Play Store for Android devices.
The app is the official source for emergency warnings and information in Victoria and is managed by Emergency Management Victoria, visit emv.vic.gov.au.
