Summer and holiday safety

Summer and the Christmas holiday period are busy times across Victoria. Stay safe by planning ahead and checking fire warnings.

Whether you're travelling or staying local, simple precautions can help protect you, your family and your community.

Road safety

Roads are busier during the summer holidays, with more drivers, motorcyclists and tourists sharing the road network.

• Allow extra time for increased traffic.
• Watch for pedestrians, sightseers and cyclists in popular holiday areas.
• Plan your route before you leave and check for road closures and bushfire warnings.
• Check that your vehicle is properly serviced to withstand the heat, and that the cooling system is working.
• Keep a pair of sunglasses in your vehicle to reduce the impact of sun glare while driving.
• Learn how to protect your caravans and trailers from theft.

Beach and water safety

Victoria's beaches, rivers and waterways are popular summer destinations. Make sure you and your family are prepared before swimming or spending time on the water.

Familiarise yourself with:

• water safety tips for beaches and waterways
• required safety equipment for boats and personal watercraft
• safe boating and jet-ski operation
• how to report boating and water-related accidents.

Outdoor and bush safety

Whether you're camping, hiking or travelling through regional Victoria, planning ahead can help keep you safe.

• Check weather forecasts and local conditions.
• Follow fire restrictions and warnings issued by the Country Fire Authority (CFA).
• Fill out a trip intentions form to give to a trusted friend or family member.
• Prepare well and stay safe when travelling in Victoria's bushland and regional areas.

Summer safety at home

Victorians spend more time at home during the holiday season and school holidays. Understanding potential risks and knowing how to respond can help keep your household safe.

• Family violence incidents become more common during stressful times such as holidays and school break. Learn the signs and how to report concerns to help keep yourself and your loved ones safe.
• Keep your neighbourhood safe by addressing unreasonable noise and resolving neighbourhood conflicts.

Securing your home while on holiday

If you're leaving home during the holiday period, take steps to reduce the risk of theft and property damage.

• Let a trusted neighbour know that you'll be away and ask them to collect mail or put bins in and out.
• Use timers to switch lights, radios or televisions on and off.
• Consider installing security cameras or CCTV systems.
• Store vehicles in a locked garage where possible.
• Register your absence from your residence if applicable.

Explore more ways to prevent home burglary, protect your property and reduce the risk of theft from your vehicle.

Holiday and celebration safety

Plan ahead for end-of-year celebrations, Christmas parties and schoolies to help you and your friends get home safely.

• Find advice to help school leavers navigate parties, travel and social situations safely.
• When throwing a party at your home, a venue or a park, register your party with Victoria Police.

Cyber and online safety

Be alert when shopping online, especially during Boxing Day sales. Find out how to identify and report cybercrime, fraud and scams.

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