In fact, January, February and March will be the most dangerous time for the shire, according to RFS community safety officer Inspector David Stimson.

Mr Stimson said a pattern of dry weather was expected to continue for the first quarter of the year.

“We’re at the start of the most dangerous time. This pattern of weather will continue, we’re not expecting a lot of rainfall,” he said.

“We still have a soil moisture deficit, which continues to cause some concern. It has a direct correlation with fire behaviour.

“If we do have a fire it will be bigger, more active and depending on the weather conditions, it could be a fast-running fire. 

“This could cause considerable damage.”

Mr Stimson said it was important for residents to remain diligent.

“If anyone witnesses a fire, please report it immediately to Triple Zero (000),” he said.

The RFS has strongly encouraged residents to develop and discuss a bush fire survival plan as soon as possible. 

Mr Stimson said it was important for residents to discuss their plans with their families.

“Complacency heightens the risk to families in bush fire prone areas,” he said.

“If families don’t discuss their plan, their lives could well and truly be threatened.”

Mr Stimson said it was also important to factor in different scenarios when creating a bush fire survival plan.

“One of the most important to sit down as a family unit and have that discussion make sure everyone knows what they’re doing,” he said.

“Remember the situation everyone in the house finds themselves in throughout the day.”

Visit www.myfireplan.com.au for more information on creating a bush fire survival plan.

The website includes information about fire plans, how to prepare your home for a bush fire, what the different bush fire alert levels mean, key information to stay involved and preparation check lists.

Residents are also encouraged to stay up-to-date with the Fires Near Me app.

The app was recently updated to show the daily fire danger rating, to allow residents to act and plan accordingly.