The release of the Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for summer is a reminder to communities to prepare for bushfires and monitor conditions as the high-risk season continues.

National Council for Fire and Emergency Services, AFAC, with the Bureau of Meteorology and state fire and emergency services developed and released the outlook.

Australia experienced record-breaking dry conditions and warmer-than-average temperatures during early spring, with hot and dry conditions expected to persist into the new year.

Abundant vegetation growth supported by La Niña rain in the past three years will continue to dry throughout summer, increasing the flammability of fuel loads.

AFAC chief executive Rob Webb said an increased risk of bushfires highlighted the importance of communities taking action.

“Wherever you live, work or visit this summer, know where to find bushfire information, prepare your property, and talk to your family and friends about what you will do in an emergency,” he said.

“Your local fire agency is the perfect place to find out exactly how to stay safe this summer.

“Australian fire agencies have had a busy start to the bushfire season, with many working in their communities and across state borders to respond to bushfires.

“Communities can stay safer and support our fire agencies by being prepared for bushfires this summer.”

A mix of water bombing aircraft, air supervision and air intelligence-gathering aircraft are positioned to protect communities across Victoria.

The aircrews support thousands of volunteers and career firefighters on the ground in trucks, heavy machinery and plant equipment.

Country Fire Authority chief officer Jason Heffernan said CFA crews across the state have been working hard to ensure communities are prepared for the forecast conditions.

“While people can expect fire risk in the coming months to be above average across south-western and central Victoria, rest assured, they will be well-protected this fire season,” he said.

“While we’re ready to respond and support communities, as we do every year, now is the time for Victorians to prepare their families, and their property and review their Bushfire Survival Plan.”

The outlook can be accessed at afac.com.au/auxiliary/publications/seasonal-outlook

For the first time in Victoria, communities can also create a fire plan online, customised to their needs and sharable with family and friends.

The online fire planner can be found at fireplanner.vic.gov.au

For fire danger ratings and emergency warnings phone the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226, visitemergency.vic.gov.au and download the VicEmergency App.

People can tune into local emergency broadcasters 101.3 MIXX FM, 1089 3WM or ABC Wimmera 594 AM during an emergency.

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