Fire fears for Victoria holidaymakers

Fire authorities in the Australian state of Victoria, are moving to high alert over the weekend and into Monday with temperatures expected to hit 41 degrees in parts of the state.

Authorities are particularly concerned about thousands of people in coastal and regional holiday spots who may not be familiar with the area.

Country Fire Authority (CFA) spokesman Stephen Walls said holidaymakers should have fire plans.

"They need to monitor forecasts several times a day and don't just tune out from what the day will be like," Mr Walls said.

He said Saturday could bring lightning in parts of the state while on Sunday temperatures could reach 40 degrees north of the ranges.

But the big worry is on Monday when the mercury is tipped to hit 41 degrees.

"Monday will be a particular concern," Mr Walls said.

He said the DC10 super soaker would be on standby for the first time since it arrived in Victoria late last year but another 40 aircraft will be available to attack any fires from the air.

Police are asking members of the public to be vigilant and keep their eye out for anyone acting suspiciously.

East Region Emergency Response Coordinator, Superintendent Fred Johansen, said police needed the community to be their eyes and ears.

"Emergency services agencies are doing everything they can to reduce the number of fires this season and this will be challenging enough without having to deal with people deliberately lighting fires," Superintendent Johansen said.

"The effects of arson are often devastating and cannot only destroy property and land, but also threaten people's lives - we never want a repeat experience like Black Saturday."

He said people have an obligation to themselves and the community to come forward if they see anything suspicious.

"People acting strangely, anything that just doesn't seem right should be reported," he said.

- AAP