The prospect of a longer-than-usual fire season has authorities urging homeowners to prepare their properties and double-check evacuation plans.
Little rain is expected for Victoria in February - something Country Fire Authority chief officer Jason Heffernan said could lead to a protracted bushfire season for the state already ravaged by blazes in its west.
"It means if you haven't prepared your property, I encourage you to do so," he told reporters on Saturday.
"Trimming over-hanging branches, cleaning gutters protects your home against ember attack and really allows firefighters to concentrate on the main fire front, as well as looking after your property."
Heatwave conditions forecast from Sunday pose an imminent threat to emergency services crews battling fires in the Grampians region.
Fires continue to burn in the Grampians while the threat in the Little Desert National Park has reduced after crews were able to contain the blaze.
Temperatures in the high 30Cs and low 40Cs are forecast across Victoria in the next few days, with the chance of dry thunderstorms and lightning increasing the risk of fires in western and central districts.
Fires are not the only danger, with Deputy Chief Health Officer Evelyn Wong reminding Victorians not to underestimate the incoming heatwave.
"Extreme heat can affect anybody," she told reporters on Saturday.
Most at risk were those older than 65, babies and young children, pregnant women, people with acute and chronic health conditions and socially isolated individuals.
"There are simple ways to keep cool, like using air conditioning or fans, drinking plenty of water, wearing light or loose clothing, keeping your skin wet with a spray bottle or a damp sponge," Ms Wong said.
Those struggling to stay cool in their homes should head somewhere cool with air conditioning, such as a shopping centre or a friend's place.
"Avoid being outside in the hottest part of the day, and please never leave kids in a hot car," Ms Wong said.
