Be BushfireSmart
Be BushfireSmart in the Great Outdoors when planning:
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Checklist Before You Travel
- Check weather forecasts for fire danger days
- Check for fire restrictions and Total Fire Bans
- Review your plans - identify the safest route and possible Bushfire refuges
- Tell someone where you are going and when
- Take a portable AM/FM radio and mobile phone
- Check woollen blankets and drinking water are in the car
While You Are Away
- Check current fire activity on the local radio
- Be prepared to change your plans on hot, dry windy days
- 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 you see or smell smoke...assume the fire can affect you
- The safest place is far away from a Bushfire
- If driving, U-turn to safety and leave the area
- If unsure if it is a Bushfire call the Victorian Bushfire Information Line 1800 240 667
If there is a Bushfire - You MUST protect yourself from heat and flames
- Stay calm - do NOT panic
- Late evacuation can be deadly
- If you decide to stay, seek refuge in an enclosed building
You must NOT get caught in a car...
If no other choice:
- Do NOT get out and run - stay in the vehicle
- Park in a large clear area, away from trees and long grass
- Turn on headlights and hazards lights
- Close windows and vents. Get below window level
- Cover exposed skin with a dry woollen blanket
- Wear dry, natural fibre clothing
- When the fire has passed, get out of the car
You must NOT get caught outdoors...
Leave the area immediately if safe to do so.
OR seek refuge in an enclosed building.
If no other choice:
- See refuge behind a rocky outcrop or high wall, in cave, gully or large animal burrow, in a large clear area away from trees and grass or in large dam or lake
- Avoid slopes and hill tops - avoid being above a fire
- Do NOT seek refuge in above ground tanks or pools
- Cover exposed skin with dry natural fibre clothing
In an emergency tune to local radio
ABC Local Radio is your Emergency Services Broadcaster
ABC Local Radio frequencies
Want a BushfireSmart Card?
Pick up a BushfireSmart card at a tourist Visitor Information Centre or your local DSE or Parks Victoria office.
BushfireSmart A4 poster (PDF - 615 KB)Please note: Document(s) on this page are presented in PDF format. If you do not have the Adobe Reader, you can download a copy free from the Adobe web site.
Useful Links
Current Fires - information
Campfire Information
Are you FireReady?
Don't Get Caught in a Bushfire