Be bushfire aware
The warmer months are the perfect time to experience regional Victoria. However, Victoria is one of the most fire-prone areas in the world. If you are visiting an area that is heavily forested, has thick bush or long, dry grass, or coastal areas with lots of plant life – you are at risk of fire. Follow these bushfire safety tips to ensure that your experience is safe and enjoyable.
Where can I get information during a fire?
- Listen to an emergency broadcaster for updates, for example ABC Local Radio
- Download the VicEmergency app to receive real-time emergency updates. The app aligns with the VicEmergency website. Set up “watch zones” to receive location-specific alerts
- For specific queries call the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226
- Visit a local Visitor Information Centre to receive the latest fire and weather information. They will also have suggestions on safe activities to see and do in the area you are visiting, if it is a high-risk day.
What if I am travelling through, or visiting, bushfire risk areas?
- While Victoria’s parks are wonderful places to experience nature, fire danger increases over the warmer months. Plan your trip carefully, and be aware of forecasted weather conditions and Fire Danger Ratings
- Reconsider visiting parks on hot and windy days, as fires can start and spread quickly
- Have a plan to leave if required and do not expect a ranger or emergency services to tell you when to leave
- For your own safety do not travel into closed parks and forests. Being in a closed area of a park during a bushfire puts you and emergency services workers at risk
- Always follow the guidelines for campfire safety - don't accidentally start a bushfire.
Checklist before you travel
- Check forecast weather conditions
- Check Fire Danger Ratings, fire restrictions, and Total Fire Bans for your route and your destination
- Check for any current fire activity in areas you will be visiting at VicEmergency
- Download the VicEmergency app and set up watch zones for the areas you are planning to visit
- Check the latest Parks Victoria park conditions and park closures
- Check for current road closures at VicRoads
- If you are travelling on a high fire danger day, review your plans - identify the safest route
- Be prepared to change your plans on days of Extreme or Catastrophic Fire Danger Ratings
While you are away
- Check for any current fire activity by listening to ABC Local Radio or other emergency broadcasters
- Do not expect an official bushfire warning
- Stay alert for bushfire smoke or flames
- Do not let your actions result in a bushfire - extinguish cigarettes and campfires completely
If there is a bushfire
If you see smoke or emergency vehicles/aircraft
- Stay calm - do not panic
- If you are unsure if it is a bushfire, look at the VicEmergency app or the VicEmergency website. If you can’t access either of these call the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226
- Listen to ABC Local Radio or other emergency broadcasters for updates
- Report new fires by calling Triple Zero or the Emergency+ app.
- Remember, late evacuation can be deadly – leaving early is the best option
Find alternative activities
- Visit a Visitor Information Centre to find out what else there is to do in the area. This could be going to the beach, visiting a local café, or seeing a movie.
Where can I get further information?
- Current fires, forecast Fire Danger Ratings and Total Fire Ban information on VicEmergency
- Call the VicEmergency Hotline – 1800 226 226. If you are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech impairment you can call through the National Relay Service.
- CFA's website - detailed bushfire safety information
- Smoke and your health - Learn how bushfire, woodfire heater and other types of smoke can impact your health. Includes what to do if it's smoky outside.
- DHHS Better Health - search the website for Bushfire safety to access information from bushfire smoke and potential hazards after a bushfire, to bushfires and water tanks and air pollution.