It comes as emergency services urge the public to stay vigilant in February, which has historically been one of the state’s most devastating for fires.

Commissioner Craig Lapsley said that Wednesday 7 February would bring back memories of the Black Saturday fires for many community members.

“It might be time just to put out your hand and ask how someone feels, to take the time to listen and understand,” he said.

Commissioner Lapsley said Friday 16 February would mark the anniversary of the 1983 Ash Wednesday fires.

“It was a long time ago but some people will remember it as if it was yesterday,” he said.

While the anniversaries provided an opportunity for reflection, Commissioner Lapsley said it was also time to focus on the current fire season.

The comments were made during a visit to Bendigo on Tuesday as emergency services prepared for what was shaping to be a hot and dry February.

The commissioner spent the day with local government and emergency management leaders, discussing how the fire season had progressed.

“That’s where we discuss not only fire, but heat health issues and our capabilities in relief and recovery if we have any major emergencies,” he said.

Commissioner Lapsley said it was important the public stayed focused as the fire season progressed.

“Our fire services certainly are. We need to remind the central Victorian community how serious February can be, and will be.”

The Bureau of Meteorology was predicting scorchers from Wednesday to Friday.

Bendigo last month experienced a record 12 days in a row of temperatures exceeding 35 degrees.

So far this season the region’s emergency services had been able to keep fires small.

“That’s because we’ve had fantastic crews on the ground. Our fire fighters have done a great job and we’ve also had excellent support from the air,” Commissioner Lapsley said.

If this story has raised issues for you or someone you know, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.