Visiting safely during fire season

Checklist for travelling through, or visiting, bushfire risk areas

The warmer months are a great time to explore Victoria’s state forests and regional areas. However, Victoria is one of the most fire-prone regions in the world, so careful planning is essential.

If you are visiting a state forest or other bushfire-prone area, you are at risk of fire. Plan your trip carefully, follow these bushfire safety tips, and you can enjoy your visit safely.

Plan ahead

Before you head into forests or parks, take a few key steps to reduce your fire risk and be prepared for changing conditions.

• Check the weather forecast for the areas you plan to visit. Hot, dry, and windy days increase fire risk.
• Know the fire danger rating. Extreme or catastrophic days may require you to change or cancel plans. State forests in affected districts close on catastrophic days.
• Check for state forest closures and Parks Victoria park closures.
• For all Victorian road closures visit VicTraffic.
• Have an exit plan and be ready to leave if required – do not rely on emergency services to tell you when to go.
• Plan your route and identify safe exit points and alternatives in case your main route is blocked.

While you are out

While you are out, follow these simple safety measures to reduce your risk.

• Never enter closed state forests or parks.
• Follow campfire and cooking rules.
• Stay alert to changing conditions. Smoke, sudden wind changes or unusual heat may signal danger.
• Keep communication options available. Let someone know your plans and expected return.

Protect yourself from smoke

Even if you are not near flames, bushfire smoke can affect your health:

• reduce outdoor exposure when smoke is heavy
• if you have respiratory conditions, take extra precautions
• learn more about protecting your health during smoke events from the EPA website.

Check current fire conditions

For live updates, warnings, and official fire information, use these authoritative sources:

• VicEmergency – up-to-date fire danger ratings, total fire bans, and current fires. You can also download the VicEmergency app or visit the website to set up watch zones and receive location-specific emergency alerts.
• ABC Local Radio – listen to an emergency broadcaster for updates.
• Country Fire Authority – practical bushfire safety advice and guidance on fire danger ratings.
• Forest Fire Management Victoria – information about fire restrictions and regulations in state forests.
• VicEmergency Hotline – Call 1800 226 226. If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech impairment, you can call through the National Relay Service.

Remember: Checking conditions on the day of your visit is crucial. Fire danger can change quickly; a low-risk morning can become high risk by afternoon.

Page last updated: 22/01/26