The unattended campfires were found at popular camping areas along the Murray River between Yarrawonga and Cobram, as well as Murrindindi Scenic Reserve, Lake Eildon and the Big River State Forest.
FFMVic Hume deputy chief fire officer Aaron Kennedy said the fire season had reached a critical point.
“The region is extremely dry and we know if fires start, they will spread quickly and be challenging to contain,” he said.
“In north-east Victoria, we’ve had far too many bushfires caused by campfires and these actions are placing the community, firefighters and the environment at risk.”
Mr Kennedy said campfire safety was a priority with higher than average visitation to camping sites.
“We are urging people to exercise significant care and observe the conditions this new year period,” he said.
“Now is not the time to become complacent.
“It’s everyone’s responsibility to ensure they follow the campfire safety rules to help prevent a disaster.”
A campfire should never be left unattended and must be properly extinguished.
Under the Forest Act 1958, on-the-spot fines of $496 can be issued to people breaching campfire safety rules.
The maximum penalty for lighting a fire during a total fire ban is $39,652, two years in jail or both.
To report an unattended campfire, phone 136 186.
For more information on camping and campfire safety, visit www.ffm.vic.gov.au/permits-and-regulations/fire-restrictions-and-regulations
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