CFA is urging the community to act safely this summer with nearly half of all bush and grassfires in Victoria being caused by reckless behaviour.

The Australian and New Zealand National Council for fire and emergency services (AFAC) summer seasonal outlook predicts an above average fire season in parts of the state this year.

CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said recklessly, or deliberately lit bush and grass fires have potentially disastrous consequences.

“These types of fires are avoidable; they put our firefighters at risk and the community at risk,” he said.

“We are urging everyone to be mindful of their actions and act sensibly to protect yourself and your loved ones.”

A large 26 hectare bushfire on 2 March in Glenrowan was sparked by a mower as 32 CFA appliances from multiple brigades responded alongside Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic), with air attack support.

At its peak prompted a Watch and Act warning for residents.

Reckless behaviour can include disobeying restrictions relating to total fire ban or fire danger periods, leaving campfires unattended, burning off without a permit, or using hot tools or machinery that emits flames or sparks on total fire ban days.

It is a criminal offence under Victorian law to cause a bushfire recklessly, or to be reckless as to the spread of a fire to vegetation or property belonging to another.

The AFAC seasonal outlook suggests an increased bushfire risk for parts of Victoria this year due to severe rainfall deficits.

An increased risk of fire is forecast for the south-west and western Victoria, as well as north central, east central and south-west Gippsland.

This includes Melbourne’s outskirts and the Mornington Peninsula, where coastal heathlands and heathy woodlands will be a significant risk this summer due to high amounts of dead fuel.

Mr Heffernan said all Victorians would play a role in keeping everyone safe this summer.

“It only takes one bad day to have a bad fire season, so we need to stay vigilant,” he said.

“We know we have a challenging season ahead and we want to ensure our firefighters are not being called out for things that could have been avoided.”

Fire restrictions are now in effect across most of Victoria and Chief Officer Heffernan urged people to follow the rules of the Fire Danger Period.

“Make sure you understand the rules, they are there to keep us all safe,” Jason said.

“Before the festive season gets too busy, take time to make an escape plan, especially if you’re travelling to a bushfire risk area.

“Your plan should include which Fire Danger Rating will trigger your decision to leave, where you’ll go, and how you’ll get there. Always consider different scenarios and back-up plans.

“Leaving early, either the night before or early morning on a high-risk fire day, is the safest option.”