Summer in Australia (November to April), in particular, carries a high risk of bush fires, which can be caused by anything from lightning strikes to carelessness with camp fires or cigarette butts. Winter (May to October) also carries a fire risk in the northern part of Australia.
Fire is a natural part of the germination process of the seeds of eucalypt trees, and these trees drop leaves and strips of bark containing flammable oils as fuel for this germination process. When a great amount of unburnt fuel builds up, an unexpected bushfire can be devastating, and can spread very quickly (sometimes as fast as 60+ kms/hour).
If you're travelling in Australia during this time (and summer is a very popular tourist season) there are a few things you need to know about bush fires in order to ensure your safety and compliance with fire regulations.
Total Fire Bans
Fire Authorities usually enforce Total Fire Bans on extremely hot days or in the case of electrical storms.
It is important to be aware of the status of these bans, particularly if you are camping or staying in a motel or self-catering accommodation that offers barbecue facilities. On Total Fire Ban days solid fuel barbecues are not permitted, even on your own property.
Gas and electric barbecues are usually permitted on Total Fire Ban days, with restrictions that the barbecue is supervised by an adult at all times, and that sufficient water or a fire extinguisher is at hand in case of emergency.
If you wish to have a barbecue, check first with your camp or accommodation manager. Warnings are given on news broadcasts on television and radio and in newspapers. You can also call the Fireban information hotline on 1300 362 361 (This is charged as a local call for most areas).
Warnings are also posted at entrances to parks and reserves where there are often free barbecue facilities. Many of these sites have gas facilities (generally free), permitted for use on Total Fire Ban days.
Your Safety
Bush fires start and spread very rapidly. If you are requested to evacuate, do so immediately.
Pay attention to warnings if you're visiting Australia during particularly dry, hot weather. If you hear reports of fires starting in your state, do ensure that you check with the locals if you intend to go bush walking or driving through the bush on your own. Your accommodation manager should be able to assist you, but if you're concerned you can also check with any Country Fire Authority (CFA).
Be aware that strong winds can pick up suddenly in Australia. Ensure an adult supervises any camp fire or barbecue at all times and always extinguish it fully when you're done with it. Never toss out glowing cigarette butts or matches. Also, avoid parking a car in long grass as the heat from the exhaust can ignite very dry grass.
The fireban and bushfire information hotline is 1300 362 361.
The emergency number to dial in Australia is 000.