Bendigo fire station operation manager Craig Brittain said residents should already have a plan and be aware of Friday's severe fire danger. 

"If people are not willing to listen to ABC radio, check the FireReady app and VicEmergency website, then they should leave their properties now," he said. 

"Friday's conditions are close to being as bad as they were on Black Saturday.

"But there won't be as much wind. 

"A late change is expected at 11pm."

Mr Brittain said it was concerning that the wind change was expected in the dead of night. 

"We have all hands on deck to ensure no fires are burning out of control when that change comes through.

"Our motto for Friday is: Hit 'em hard and hit 'em fast.

Mr Brittain said residents would be held responsible for any fire that was started - even if it was by accident.

"Put off any work you have to do that involves machinery," he said. 

"We will hold you accountable if a fire starts."

Harsh penalties will be given to anyone who starts a fire on Total Fire Ban days.

Police door-knocked in Kennington on Friday morning after a suspicious fire was lit at Brennan Park about 1.30am.

The blaze was contained in 10 minutes and burnt 10 to 20 metres of scrub land, CFA said. 

Police ask anyone with information to contact Bendigo police station on 5448 1300.