WITH many residents from the south-west fleeing the comfort of their homes to go camping, Parks Victoria is sharing their tips for how to stay safe when camping.

Regardless of whether your summer camping plans involve the forest, native bushland, or the coast, Parks Victoria have some tips to help you get the most out of your camping getaway without experiencing the distress associated with bushfires, injuries, or close encounters with dangerous wildlife.

Parks Victoria have advised that whilst campfires are useful, they also have the potential to be very dangerous if not managed correctly.

When planning for a campfire, bring your own firewood as felling or damaging trees at parks is strictly prohibited, with some campgrounds also not allowing the collection of fallen wood.

CFA District 5 commander, David Ferguson said it is essential to put all fires out correctly by using water not soil before going to sleep or leaving the campgrounds.

“A lot of people might have their fire in a trench or a pit, which is recommended where there isn’t a properly constructed fireplace, sometimes they just fill it in with dirt and the wind can blow the dirt away or the embers on the top can spread causing a fire,” he said.

“The strong recommendation is that you use water.”

Parks Victoria recommends mixing a lot of water with the coals when putting out a campfire, stating if it’s cool to touch it’s safe to leave.

Parks Victoria executive director of operations, Kylie Trott said it should also be a top priority for all campers to check weather conditions prior to starting a fire.

“Always check and monitor the fire danger rating before you leave and during your stay,” she said.

“Not all parks or campgrounds allow campfires, so make sure you check park signs or research where you’re staying.”

On Total Fire Ban days, it is prohibited to light a campfire or barbecue that doesn’t use gas or electricity and is not a permanently fixed structure built of stone, metal, concrete, or another non-flammable material.

All campfires must comply with Forest Fire Management Victoria's fire restrictions, permits and regulations, which can be found on the campground's page.

Ms Trott said another consideration when camping is the danger trees can pose, as branches can fall, causing serious damage to property or injury.

“Avoid camping, parking your car and picnicking near or under trees as branches and whole trees may fall unpredictably,” she said.

Campers should also be careful not to disturb the habitats of wildlife or feed them as this can make animals sick or dependent on humans for food.

Ms Trott said campers need to remember to dispose of their rubbish properly and be mindful of not harming the natural environment by dumping chemicals near rivers, lakes, or the sea.

“Take all rubbish home with you (and) wash dishes and set up camp showers 50 metres away from any water,” she said.

Anyone going camping is encouraged to bring plastic bags or a box to store rubbish as bins are not often provided at campgrounds.