Geelong and the Surf Coast are set for some serious heat for Boxing Day, with a total fire ban in place across the state.
Locally, the fire danger is listed as extreme, as firefighters across the state prepare for the worst fire danger day since the 2019/20 Black Summer.
Boxing Day temperatures are set to hit 38C in town, with windy conditions before a late cool change.
Luke Hegarty from the State Control Centre said anyone travelling should check the conditions of their destination.
“Stay up to date with what that fire danger rating looks like and take action based off that fire danger rating,” he said.
“You might need to make the decision to turn around, you might need to travel via a different route.
“Be prepared for those contingencies, so water in the car, extra batteries, phones charged, all those important things just so you’re not caught out.”
Life Saving Victoria is expecting a busy day at local beaches, as people try to cool off from the heat.
LSV’s Chad Henry is urging people to stay safe by the waters.
“The beach lifeguards are on the beach and do an amazing job, so swim between the flags and they’ll be there to protect you,” he said.
“It’s very critical that people ensure that they take care of themselves, they protect themselves, by wearing appropriate clothing and they actually attend locations that are protected and patrolled by lifeguards.”
