With temperatures expected to rise into the mid 40's this weekend, the Rural Fire Service is on high alert.
The RFS is sending helicopters and back-up crews to Cessnock, which has borne the brunt of the fire season so far this summer.
Trail bike patrols will also be on hand to assist police, monitoring trouble spots in the area.
The situation is being made worse with grass and bush curing and drying out following recent rainfall.
Bert Pippin from the Lower Hunter RFS said residents living in bushfire-prone areas need to be prepared.
"We always recommend residents have their properties prepared early so that if a fire does start they've got a chance of looking after their property by extinguishing the fire. They should also keep their property well maintained by raking up loose leaves and mowing lawns and grassed areas around homes", he said.
