Recent bushfires in areas such as the Grampians, the Gurdies and the Otways serve as reminders of the risks posed by hot, dry conditions. While these fires are now contained and visitors are welcome to return, the CFA advises vigilance as fire crews remain active on the ground.
Travellers are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the fire danger ratings of their destinations and stay informed through multiple reliable sources. The VicEmergency app is an essential tool for real-time updates, helping you adjust plans or avoid high-risk areas.
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan urged travellers to familiarise themselves with the fire danger ratings of their destination and to monitor conditions through at least two reliable sources of information.
“While the recent bushfires have been contained by the incredible work of our dedicated firefighters, fire risk will continue to linger over the coming months,” Mr Heffernan said.
“There is still underlying soil and vegetation dryness across southwest, western Victoria, as well as parts of West Gippsland, forests and grasslands are drier than normal.
“While conditions are normal across the north-east and eastern ranges due to the recent heavy rainfall, the other areas missed out and are likely to continue to face elevated risk.
“It is not unusual for fires to arise in these circumstances.
“With temperatures set to reach high 20s to mid-30s across the state, I want to emphasise the significance of downloading the VicEmergency App to remain alert to any fires in the region you find yourselves in.
“You may need to alter your route, so please avoid driving through high-risk areas in hot and dry conditions, and if using machinery avoid driving through dry vegetation on days such as these.”
Fire restrictions and outdoor safety reminders
Fire restrictions remain in place across the state, reminding residents that burning off vegetation in open areas is prohibited without a permit from a fire prevention officer.
Mr Heffernan also advises anyone using barbecues or outdoor cooking appliances this weekend to ensure they are fully extinguished before leaving them unattended.
“We want all Victorians to enjoy their long weekend without any surprises, so it is really important your set-up is safe,” Mr Heffernan said.
“Our messages remain clear — check your equipment for any faults before use and always have someone by the fire.
“We also recommend having at least 10 litres of water or a hose nearby.
“Give yourself some clearance from walls, fences and flammable materials of at least three metres and continue to check wind conditions are suitable before igniting any flame.
“We know campfires, spit roasts, pizza ovens and fire pits will be popular this weekend; however, if they are not within a properly constructed fireplace or exceed one metre by one metre in size, they can pose a serious fire risk.”
Travel safety tips for this long weekend
Before you hit the road, consider these safety tips from the CFA:
- Visit cfa.vic.gov.au/travel for comprehensive travel safety advice.
- Check the Fire Danger Rating at cfa.vic.gov.au/firedangerratings
- Download the VicEmergency app for real-time updates on emergencies across Victoria.
- Ensure you have access to more than one source of emergency information, such as:
- ABC local radio, commercial and designated community radio stations, or Sky News.
- The VicEmergency App and website emergency.vic.gov.au
- The VicEmergency Hotline on1800 226 226.
- For details on what activities are permitted during fire restrictions, visit the ‘Can I or Can’t I?’ page.
Stay safe while cooking outdoors
Outdoor cooking is a popular way to enjoy the long weekend and the CFA shares these essential safety tips:
- Set up your barbecue, fire pit, spit roast, pizza oven or smoker on a stable, non-flammable surface with at least three metres of clearance around and above the fire.
- Never leave a fire unattended and always keep at least 10 litres of water or a hose nearby.
- Fully extinguish fires with water before walking away or going indoors.
- Ensure fires are lit in a properly constructed fireplace or a trench at least 30 cm deep.
- Check for gas leaks on barbecues by spraying soapy water on connections and hoses. If bubbles appear when the gas is turned on, there’s a leak.
- Avoid using barbecues indoors, and keep them clear of walls, fences and flammable materials.
- If a fire cannot be extinguished safely, call 000.
