Tuesday, Sep 05, 2006 at 21:08
nissnut and anyone else who cares to read this, sorry it's so long,
While I can't help you with the legalities of a
camp fire in that area at any time, as a professional firefighter for over 26 years now, can I offer the following advice.
When I am called to a fire in a back yard,
camp fire or fire in a field (farmer burning off etc.) the first question I ask myself is "Is it dangerous?" If it is I put it out. Then I ask "is it legal?" If it is not I advise those in control of the fire to put it out. I am not a law enforcement officer and do not want to be. No offence to all those out there who are, I respect you and the difficult job you do.
The advice offered by Willem is quite pertinent. A cleared area is important to the safety of the bush and the people who are supposed to enjoy the fire. It not only makes spread of the fire less likely it facilitates safe movement around the fire. The law in NSW states the cleared area is to be minimum of 4.5m from the edge of the fire. The area above the fire should also be clear.
In addition to Willem's advice keep the fire small. If you drag a fallen 30m tree into
camp and set it alight you will attract attention, someone will call the local authority and you will have great difficulty convincing them that it is safe at any time of year. You will also waste resources robbing others of the simple pleasure you have enjoyed. A fire 450mmm in diametre is quite sufficient to do all your cooking and provide the atmosphere we all love when out in the bush. By keeping it small you are more likely to "Get away with it". I am not condoning breaking the law here, throughout Australia there are heavy fines and even prison sentences attached to the breaking of fire safety regulations, but why attract attention when you don't need to.
When you are finished with the fire or if you are leaving the
campsite unattended put the fire out. The best way is to use
water. Once the fire is thouroughly extinguished spread it out so it does not remain as an ugly scar on the environment. Let the next people who
camp there believe they are the first to visit that spot. Please don't use your campfire as a rubbish disposal site. The old burn bash and bury idea died long ago. Take your rubbish with you.
Hopefully I am telling people what they already know, preaching to the converted. I am not trying to spoil anyones fun, I love a fire more than most, there is a fair bit of pyromaniac in most fire fighters. If we do it right then the authorities are less likely to outlaw this most enjoyable part of
camping.
I fully condone your desire to research the legislation, can I suggest you contact the local fire authority or national parks who should be more than happy to give you the latest information. Thankyou for the opportunity to address an issue I am just a little passionate about. This advice is meant to be friendly, hope it is taken that way.
Duncs
AnswerID:
193025