Prolonged heatwave conditions set to begin over the weekend will pose challenges for both the Victorian community and the fire crews currently battling the fires in the western part of the state.

The CFA noted three bushfires continue to burn in the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park, with firefighters today using aircraft and back burning as a key part of the containment strategy, to help protect surrounding communities and environment from the impacts of these fires.

With much of the state expected to reach the high 30s and low 40s over the next few days, Victorians are reminded to protect themselves and others during days of extreme heat.

Thunderstorms and dry lightning are a concern on the weekend, which may lead to new fire starts on days of elevated fire risk and increased activity at the ongoing fires currently in the landscape.

Emergency Management Commissioner, Rick Nugent is urging people to stay hydrated, check in with family, friends, neighbours and people most at risk and plan activities for the coolest part of the day.

"Starting tomorrow, we will see a severe heatwave for most of Victoria, and I would like to remind our community to stay informed through the VicEmergency App. Start to prepare now, know where to go to escape the heat, and have a plan to check in with friends and family."

Victorians living in high-risk bushfire areas should finalise their bushfire survival plan with their families ahead of the weekend and be prepared to act.

Victorians are reminded to never rely on one channel for emergency information. Connect to official sources of emergency information, including

• VicEmergency app
• www.emergency.vic.gov.au
• Tune in to local emergency broadcasters such as ABC local radio, commercial and select community radio stations, or SkyNews TV
• Phone the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226
• Follow VicEmergency on Facebook and Twitter

Beach safety

Many people will head to Bass Coast and other coastal areas to cool off during this period.

Mr Nugent stressed the importance of staying safe when in and around water, reminding everyone to be aware of conditions, read safety signs and prepare by refreshing your water safety skills, including personal survival techniques and water safety knowledge.

Download the Beachsafe app or visit beachsafe.org.au to check beach conditions to find a safe place to swim, he said.

The warnings are echoed by Life Saving Victoria (LSV), who urged everyone to prioritise water safety, saying the predicted strong winds over the coming four days could create "rapidly changing and hazardous conditions on waterways".

Volunteer lifesavers and paid lifeguards will be patrolling over the weekend, with additional services on Monday and Tuesday.

The Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter, Rescue Water Craft and Remote Piloted Aircraft Systems teams will also be deployed to protect beachgoers, LSV said.

Key safety tips:

Before heading out: Check conditions on the BOM app or website (bom.gov.au) and plan your trip to a patrolled beach where lifeguards are present.

On Phillip Island, Woolamai, Smiths Beach and Cowes will be patrolled from 10am - 6pm through until February 2.

• Swim between the red and yellow flags at a patrolled location.
• Learn to recognise rip currents – the leading hazard at Australian beaches.
• Supervise children at all times.
• Always swim or recreate with a friend and be aware of your own abilities.
• Drinking alcohol has been shown to increase the risk of drowning – don’t enter the water if you have been drinking and likewise don’t let your mates drink and drown.
• Read safety signs, and be aware of your own abilities and limitations before entering the water.