Camping in Winter: The Risk of Bushfires in Australia

While winter camping offers crisp air, fewer crowds, and stunning starry nights, it’s easy to forget that bushfire risks don’t disappear with cooler weather. In fact, dry vegetation, strong winds, and careless fire practices can still result in devastating winter bushfires — particularly in parts of Western Australia, New South Wales, and South Australia.

Here’s your essential guide to camping safely during winter in Australian bushland, with everything from fire permit advice to essential first aid tips.

🔥 1. Are Bushfires a Risk in Winter?

Yes — while fire danger is lower in winter, it’s far from zero. Winter bushfires are often caused by:

• Unattended campfires

• Backburning without permits

• Improperly extinguished coals or embers

• Strong dry winds in Northern or inland Australia

According to the Australian Institute for Disaster Resilience, between 5%–10% of total annual bushfire incidents occur in the cooler months — often catching people off guard.

🏕️ 2. How to Safely Make a Fire When Camping

If you’re lighting a campfire in the bush, you must follow these rules to reduce the risk:

✅ DO:

• Use designated fire pits or dig a 30cm fire trench in bare soil

• Clear at least 3 metres of space around the fire (no dry grass, leaves or tents nearby)

• Keep your fire small and manageable (no larger than 1m x 1m)

• Have a bucket of water, a shovel, and a fire extinguisher close by

❌ DON’T:

• Light fires on windy days

• Burn plastic, aerosols, or food packaging

• Leave the fire unattended at any time

• Assume winter weather means fire bans don’t apply

🔍 3. Check Fire Permits Before You Go

Before heading off to your winter campsite, always check local fire permit regulations and alerts. You may need a burning permit in some national parks or fire-prone zones, even in winter.

Examples of websites where you can check current fire regulations at:

• MyFirePlan

• DFES (WA)

• NSW RFS

• Vic Emergency

Tip: Save your local fire authority hotline in your phone and set notifications for weather/fire alerts in the area.

🧯 4. How to Safely Extinguish a Campfire

Even if your fire looks out — hot embers can stay active for up to 8 hours!

Follow the “Drown, Stir, Check” method:

1. Drown the fire with plenty of water (not just a sprinkle).

2. Stir the ashes to uncover remaining embers.

3. Check the temperature. Hold your hand 10cm above it — if it’s still warm, repeat.

Never bury your fire — it can smoulder underground and reignite hours later.

🩹 5. First Aid Tips for Burns and Smoke Inhalation

Bushfire and campfire accidents can happen quickly. Here’s what to do:

🔥 For Minor Burns:

• Cool the burn immediately with clean running water for 20 minutes.

• Do not use ice or butter.

• Cover with a sterile non-stick dressing (avoid cotton or wool).

🌫️ For Smoke Inhalation:

• Move the person to fresh air

• Encourage slow, deep breathing

• Seek medical help if coughing, confusion or shortness of breath occur. Emergencies should call 000.

🧰 6. Best First Aid Kits for Camping

When you’re remote, access to help can be hours away. Carrying the right gear is crucial.

At Scavenger Fire & Safety, we recommend:

✅ Responder 4 Series – Metal Tough First Aid Kit

• Ideal for rugged environments

• Covers burns, cuts, snake bites & heavy trauma

• Contains over 150 items

✅ A Personal Burns Kit

• Include hydrogel dressings, burn sheets, nitrile gloves, and saline solution

• Make sure it is lightweight and compact – perfect for hiking packs

✅ Fire Blanket (1.8m x 1.8m)

• Essential for smothering clothing fires or small cooking fires

• Also helps provide emergency warmth in cold weather

🧠 7. Quick Tips for Bushfire Preparedness While Camping

• Download emergency apps (like Emergency+ or Fires Near Me)

• Have a Plan B route in case roads are closed

• Let someone know your location and expected return

• Pack high-vis clothing, whistles, and battery-powered radios

🧭 Final Thoughts: Winter Camping Can Still Be Fire Risky

Camping in the Australian winter can be magical — but fire safety should never take a backseat. With proper fire permits, responsible fire management, a well-stocked first aid kit, and basic survival knowledge, you’ll enjoy your getaway while staying safe and prepared.