MILDURA'S Fire Danger Period begins this Monday and residents are being warned to prepare for a warm summer.

The El Niño weather pattern means Victorians can expect a hotter and drier summer than recent years, and Sunraysia communities should begin preparing their properties and creating a Bushfire Survival Plan.

During a fire danger period, lighting fires in the open without a permit can bring a penalty of more than $21,800 and/or 12 months' imprisonment.

People wanting to conduct a burn off will also be required to receive a written permit.

CFA District 18 assistant chief fire officer Gavin Wright said grass and crops across the Mallee were curing rapidly which could contribute to the risk of a fire.

“With the vegetation growth along roadsides and in public reserves that has been fuelled by underlying soil moisture the fire danger is increasing daily,” he said.

“I urge residents and farmers across the Mallee to complete their fire prevention activities prior to the commencement of the declared fire danger period.”

The CFA has 52,000 members poised to respond and support communities this bushfire season however they’re urging people to use common sense and take responsibility for preventing fires.

Those conducting burn-offs must notify authorities online at the Fire Permits Victoria website (www.firepermits.vic.gov.au), or by calling ESTA on 1800 668 511.

More information about fire danger periods is available online at www.cfa.vic.gov.au/firedangerperiod.