As families head outdoors for Easter adventures, nothing beats toasting marshmallows over a warm fire.
However, fire and land authorities are warning if people are not careful, a campfire or fire pit can go from a cozy glow to a full-blown bushfire faster than you can say ‘Easter egg hunt’.
Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) Chief Fire Officer Chris Hardman said before campers settle in for stories under the stars, they should make sure they know and are following campfire safety rules.
“This season, we’ve responded to almost 300 incidents involving campfires, including the Boroka Lookout Fire in the Grampians National Park where an illegal campfire turned into a large bushfire,” Mr Hardman said.
“If it wasn’t for the efforts of our firefighters, that fire could have grown and destroyed the Halls Gap community.
“Campfires that escape are a big problem in Victoria. Always fully extinguish campfires with water, not soil and make sure it’s cool to touch before leaving.
“We want people to enjoy the bush safely. By knowing and following the rules for building and maintaining campfires, we can help keep the bush healthy and safe for everyone.”
Parks Victoria executive director of operations Kylie Trott said campfires are generally only permitted in designated fireplaces across most Victorian parks.
“Campfires aren’t allowed in all parks or campgrounds. In most cases fires must be within a constructed fireplace, so it’s essential to check the rules before your trip,” Ms Trott said.
“Someone should always be watching the fire while it’s burning, and ensure it is fully extinguished before you leave. The consequences of getting it wrong can be devastating.”
Acting chief conservation regulator Cal Heppell said escaped campfires are a cause of bushfires that are 100 per cent preventable.
“Ensure you know the rules and are up to date on weather conditions before you light any fire. Your fire is your responsibility,” Mr Heppell said.
“Our authorised officers will be visiting campsites throughout Victoria’s parks and forests making sure everyone is following the rules so we can all have a safe and enjoyable holiday.”
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said that while fire pits will also be a great source of warmth, careful consideration is key to keeping everyone safe from injuries and fire starts.
“Last year CFA responded to 219 fire pit incidents, which could have been prevented by simply having a safer set up and fully extinguishing them before walking away,” Mr Heffernan said.
“Make sure to give your fire pit plenty of room with at least three metres of space in all directions and place it on a flat, non-flammable surface.
“Have at least 10 litres of water or a hose nearby and an adult supervising the fire at all times so you can enjoy your long weekend without any surprises.”
Before hitting the road, people should be familiar with local campfire regulations and safety measures to help protect the environment and local communities.
To understand what activities you can undertake, visit CFA’s Can I or Can’t I webpage.
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.
