Neglected campfires can cause bushfires
Don’t let your campfire become a bushfire this summer.
That’s the message from Forest Fire Management Victoria which has launched a campaign to remind Gippsland campers to follow rules when it comes to campfire safety.
FFV assistant chief fire officer Chris Stephenson said the campaign aims to reduce the number of fires caused by neglected campfires.
“We want people to get out there and enjoy themselves but make campfire safety a priority for their trip by knowing what they can and can’t do,” said Mr Stephenson.
“In Gippsland, we have had far too many bushfires caused by campfire negligence and this is placing the community and firefighters at risk, as well as potentially damaging the environment and affecting industry and recreational users of our public land,” he added. “It takes a lot of time, effort and personnel to respond to a fire, so when campfires escape and could have been prevented by following the rules, it’s very frustrating.”
Parks Victoria regional director Graeme Baxter said campfires can only be lit in designated fireplaces in National Parks.
“If there are no designated fire places, then campfires are not permitted,” said Mr Baxter. “Our rangers regularly patrol parks, forests and reserves to ensure campers are doing the right thing and to educate visitors on campfire safety.”
“Before you head out, make sure you plan ahead and check the long-range weather forecast,” he said. “If in doubt on a hot day, don't light your campfire.”
He also urged people to remain vigilant. If they see a campfire that doesn’t look right or is unattended, call 136 186 or in the case of a bushfire 000.
It is everyone’s responsibility to ensure they follow the campfire safety rules:
Use a purpose-built fireplace where provided, otherwise light your campfire in a trench at least 30cm deep. Ensure the trench is no larger than one square metre in size and the area around the trench is cleared of flammable material up to three metres in all directions, including above the campfire.
Branches and logs on your campfire must be less than one metre long – keep your fire just big enough for warmth and cooking.
Never leave a campfire alight or unattended. You must maintain a 50-metre line of sight of the campfire at all times.
An adult must be present at all times when the campfire is alight.
Ensure your campfire is completely extinguished using water not soil.
Under the Forest Act 1958, on the spot fines of up to $476 can be issued for people breaching campfire safety rules and a person can face a maximum penalty of up to $15,872 if the matter is prosecuted in court.
For further information, www.ffm.vic.gov.au.