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Fire And Camping - Be Safe, Not Sorry

As our summer weather starts to heat up, many people are heading for the bush to camp and experience the great outdoors.

By Department of Sustainability and Environment - 11th January 2005 - Back to News

Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) staff would like to remind campers and other users of state forests to be extra careful with fire when they are enjoying our natural environment.

DSE's Regional Fire Manager, David Tainsh said that sparks from campfires and barbeques can easily start the bush burning.

"Restrictions apply to ensure that fires do not escape and that our bushland is protected", Mr Tainsh said.

"Campfires are not permitted in some areas, or may only be allowed in fireplaces provided, so check before you start your trip whether the spot you've chosen to visit has any restrictions."

In National Parks and State Forests, use a properly constructed fireplace where provided or use a fuel stove. In the absence of a fire place, light your campfire in a trench 30 cm deep or construct a fireplace using rocks, to prevent embers flying out. Take extra care as some tree roots can burn.

Clear the ground of any flammable material (eg leaves, twigs, tree stumps) within three metres of your campfire, and make sure there is nothing overhead which could catch fire.

Portable barbecues and camp cookers can be used. Fuel stoves are a suitable alternative as they are cleaner, cook faster and don't scar the landscape.

Clear the ground and air space of flammable (eg leaves, twigs) material within 1.5 metres around the appliance. Make sure it is in a stable position when alight.

If you are using your appliance in a tent or annexe, a three metre clearance around the tent / annexe is necessary to reduce fire spreading. Use it outside if possible.

Total Fire Ban days are declared when conditions are hot, windy, and the bush is dry. There are five fire ban districts in Victoria - it is up to you to find out when a fire ban is on.

Listen to the radio, contact your local DSE, Parks Victoria or CFA office before lighting up. If in doubt, keep your campfire out.

On Total Fire Ban days:

• No campfires or open flame barbecues. This includes kettle/weber style barbecues and solid fuel camp ovens.
• No liquid fuel or gas appliance - in the open, in a tent, annexe or tent-like trailer.
• Some parks provide built in electric or gas barbecues. These can be used provided a water supply is within 10 metres, the barbecue is clear of all flammable material three metres around it and an adult is present.

Don't let your campfire go bush!

• Most campfires escape when they are left unattended. An adult must be present at all times.
• Keep your campfire just big enough for cooking and keeping warm.
• Put your fire out with water not soil, even if going for a short walk or swim.
• Take care on dry, windy days (check it is not a Total Fire Ban)

If you would like more information about campfires, contact the DSE office nearest to the park or forest where you plan to camp.

Remember, if your campfire is cool to touch it is safe to leave, and it can't go bush!

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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