The Risk
What drives bushfire risk in Victoria
A small spark can become a fast-moving fire faster than most people expect.
Here’s what to watch for, and what’s at stake.
Weather & conditions
Heat, wind, dry ground and built-up fuel like leaf litter and dry grass all raise fire risk. Check the Fire Danger Rating before you light anything
Adjust Your Activities
Machinery, power tools, campfires and cigarettes can all throw a spark. If you can’t control it safely, don’t light it.
Visit Vic Emergency and CFA
Criminal Penalties
15yrs
Imprisonment
Recklessly causing a bushfire
Maximum penalty under Victorian law, even without intent to cause harm.
25yrs
Imprisonment
Arson resulting in death
Maximum penalty where a reckless or deliberate fire costs a life.
Your fire is your responsibility. Reckless and accidental fires put lives and homes at risk.
WATCH THE CAMPAIGN
See the campaign in action
Real scenarios, clear consequences, and what you can do to help.
STAY SAFE
Fire safety: the do's and don'ts
The Do’s
Monitor the Fire Danger Rating for your area
Check Total Fire Ban and permit rules first
Watch the weather and follow official warnings
Keep proper fire-extinguishing equipment on hand
The Dont’s
Burn off without a permit or during a Total Fire Ban
Use spark-prone equipment on high fire-risk days
Leave a campfire or coals unattended
Light a fire while intoxicated
RESOURCES & DOWNLOADS
Bushfire safety resources
Test Link Resource
google.com
Test File Resource
CFA - Am I at Risk?
HELP SOLVE CRIME
Seen something risky? Tell us.
If you've seen behaviour that could start a bushfires, report it to Crime Stoppers 24/7 — anonymously, online or by phone. You choose how much you share.
Record what you can, only if it's safe to do so
Start your report online in minutes
Upload any photos or footage you have
Add details like time, place and a description
Report online anonymously in minutes with the Crime Stoppers Victoria's online reporting platform. Watch how