Discovery on Aussie beach prompts warning over dangerous $2,200 act: 'Please don't'
Beach campfires pose serious safety risks – and people might not see it until it's too late.
Firefighters are reminding Australian holidaymakers about the dangers of a simple act on the beach that can attract an on-the-spot fine of $2,200 — and pose a real threat to other beachgoers as well as local residents. It comes after rural fire fighters on NSW's south coast were called to reports of multiple campfires on the beach in Tuross Head this week.
Despite rural fire crews pouring "buckets of water" on the sand to extinguish one of the simmering blazes, the temperature of the sand below was still an alarming 270C — which could cause serious harm if stepped on by unwitting beachgoers.
The fire service reported that there has been an "increase" in beach fires as Aussies descend on the coast to enjoy their festive break. But "beach fires are illegal and can result in the issuing of fines," the NSW Rural Fire Service warned.
"The heat underground from a beach fire can remain for hours and kids or other beachgoers may inadvertently step in hot coals. Enjoy our coastline, but please don't light beach fires."
Not only do beach fires pose serious health risks to humans, they remove habitat for wildlife, advocates warn. "Shorebirds also use driftwood as shelter from predators, so please leave in place," a campaigner shared. "There always seems to be garbage associated with illegal beach fires, which shows disrespect for our coast," they added.
Bushfire danger period in full swing
Each state and local area declares their high risk fire season differently across the country, but they typically start as early as October and end in March.
Over the Christmas period, total fire bans have been put in place across the country with hot, dry and windy conditions hitting Victoria, South Australia and NSW with 43,000 hectares of land burned in the Grampians National Park in Victoria over Christmas.
In New South Wales, it's an offence to set a fire during this time without a licence. According to Tuross Head Rural Fire Brigade, leaving a fire unattended risks an on-the-spot fine of $2200. "Let's all stay safe over the New Year break," they warned.
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Campfires and bonfires common cause of injury
Health authorities have long warned about the safety risks of homemade fires. Last week, a woman in her 70s suffered severe burns after she fell into a fire pit in her Queensland backyard.
Earlier this year, South Australian dad Adam Boots was rushing to start a bonfire as part of a romantic proposal when the flames "exploded" in his face.
It prompted Kidsafe SA to tell parents they should be wary of fire pits, as children tend to be "drawn toward the open flame" and their "small size often means they're positioned very close" to it.
Boots said the accident has now left him extremely wary around fires. "Don't use accelerants, be very cautious of it," he said.
Tips for having a fire
NSW Rural Fire Service reminded Aussies that if the fire is in a permanently constructed fireplace, they do not need a permit.
"Your fire should be kept a reasonable size so it doesn't get out of hand, a hose should reach the fire and surrounding area and a responsible person must be present at all times," the service said.
For more information, visit the website of your Rural Fire service.
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