Authorities issue burns warning ahead of long weekend

The Victorian Adult Burns Service (VABS) at The Alfred, which treats the most severe burns injuries from across the state, saw a 42 per cent increase in admissions in December 2023, compared to December 2022. The patients – particularly young men – suffered serious burns caused by fire pits, camp fires and barbecues.

In the last three years, VABS has seen 236 people admitted with serious petrol-related burns injuries. Of these, 92 patients had consumed alcohol or illicit substances prior, and nearly half (47%) suffered deep burns that required surgery and skin grafts. The most common age group for these injuries is 20-39 years.

“This Australia Day long weekend, we know many people will be heading away camping, gathering with friends for a barbecue, or enjoying a camp fire on a warm night,” said burns surgeon Dane Holden.

“We ask that those people behave safely around fire – the types of injuries we have seen recently cause scars that can last a lifetime, and require weeks and months of hospital care. Many of those injuries were entirely preventable. If you’re thinking about using accelerant on a fire – just don’t do it.”

In the last year, CFA responded to 186 incidents involving a campfire. 

CFA second lieutenant at Diamond Creek Fiona Macken said Victorians needed to take care when using recreational fires ahead of the long weekend. 

“We know how dangerous fire can be so it's important to be careful this long weekend if you’re gathered around a barbecue or campfire.

“Campfires can remain hot well after the flames have burnt down, so avoid walking on them and always extinguish them completely with water before leaving.

"Always do a safety check before igniting a barbecue and if you’re burnt it is critical to apply cool running water immediately. You can find out more at cfa.vic.gov.au.

“I urge all Victorians to take care this weekend and stay safe.”