With today’s total fire ban this is a timely warning, with temperatures today expected to hit 45C.
“We want to reduce the number of fires caused by campfires,” Aaron Kennedy, assistant chief fire officer, Hume region said.
“Our message to campers is clear — don’t let your campfire become a bushfire this summer.
“Since November this year we have responded to 56 fires caused by campfires in our region.
‘‘We want people to get out there and enjoy themselves but make campfire safety a priority.
‘‘The key to this is understanding what they can and can’t do.
About 10 per cent of all bushfires are caused by campfires which is placing communities and firefighters at risk.
“Significant time, personnel and resources are used every time we respond to a fire. Aaron said.
‘‘When campfires escape, it could have been prevented by following a simple set of rules — it’s very frustrating.
“Before you head out, make sure you plan ahead and check the long-range weather forecast.
‘‘If in doubt on a hot day — don’t light your campfire.
“We are asking people to be vigilant about campfire safety and if they see a campfire which doesn’t look right or is unattended, to call 136 186 or 000.
“It is everyone’s responsibility to ensure they follow campfire safety rules.”
Responsibilities for campfires include:
1. 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.
2. Branches and logs on your campfire must be less than one metre long – keep your fire just big enough for warmth and cooking.
3. Never leave a campfire alight or unattended and maintain a 50 metre line of sight of the campfire at all times.
4. An adult must be present at all times when the campfire is alight.
5. Ensure your campfire is completely extinguished using water.
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 more information on campfire safety visit ffm.vic.gov.au/permits-and-regulations/firerestrictions-and-regulations
12°C