Camping is one of Australia's most go-to outdoor activities.

This activity offers families the chance to connect with nature and each other away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

However, as one Aussie family's harrowing experience showed, it's crucial to remain vigilant about camping safety.


Ashlea Hodder's Easter weekend camping trip with her children at Keelbottom Creek turned from a joyful family outing into a cautionary tale.

The incident occurred as the family was packing up their campsite.

Her seven-year-old daughter, Coral, suffered severe burns from stepping on the embers of a fire left by another group.


The young girl's screams of pain were a chilling reminder of how quickly an adventure can turn into a disaster.

Coral, who looked forward to her birthday, now faced a long and painful recovery from third-degree burns on her right foot and fingers.

The Hodder family immediately rushed her to the nearest hospital, where they anxiously waited to see if skin grafts would be necessary for the girl's recovery.


Ashlea, a seasoned camper, expressed her frustration and anger towards the neighbouring campsite for her daughter's situation.

'It's common sense to put out your fire,' she lamented in an interview.

'It could have happened to anyone, or it could have caused a bushfire.'

Her sentiments echoed the unwritten code of the outdoors: leave no trace and ensure that all fires are completely extinguished before leaving.

The campsite's proximity to a creek also highlighted the opportunity to use available water to douse the flames.

The trauma of the accident has led to Ashlea's children being reluctant to go camping again, and she has even blamed herself for the incident.


Since the incident, Ashlea has reassured her children that the blame does not lie with her but with those who do not follow basic safety protocols at campsites.

This unfortunate event should serve as a reminder to campers about the importance of safety.

'Just make sure you put out your fires with water; don't stomp them out or cover them with sand; take extra water with you because you never know what's going to happen,' Ashlea urged fellow campers, in light of her family's experience.

It should also be a reminder that children should be allowed to explore and play outdoors.

However, parents need to ensure that they are wearing protective clothing and are educated about campfire safety.

Many seniors have enjoyed camping throughout their lives.

Yet, everyone should also know the importance of passing on safe practices to the younger generations.

Remember, a safe camping trip is a happy camping trip.
Have you ever had a close call with a campfire? Do you have advice on how to ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience for everyone? We invite you to share your camping safety tips or experiences in the comments section below.