A forecasted heatwave won't stand in the way of commercial New Year's Eve fireworks, but firefighters are warning against the use of illegal materials.
From tomorrow, the mercury will be rising steadily and is set to hit 36 degrees on New Year's Eve.
The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting 38 on Saturday, 39 on Sunday and 38 on Monday.
CFA District 24 Commander Brett Myers does not anticipate those temperatures will put any official fireworks at risk.
"We're going to be entering into a severe heatwave over the years period, but thankfully, the fire danger index is not at a level that should cause too much of a concern for us," he said.
"That's mainly because the wind speed is relatively benign, and the humidity level is a bit higher.
"In saying that though, there are certainly still areas that are quite dry; fires can start quite easily from a firework.
"Think about the bigger consequence of engaging in illegal fireworks.
"Not only is it a criminal offence, but there is the risk of starting a fire and then unfortunately our volunteer firefighters would have to leave their celebrations to jump on a fire truck.
"Traditionally, we do see some smaller fires start from fireworks."
It is a crime for anyone other than licensed pyrotechnicians to use or possess fireworks, which are classed as a type of explosive under the Dangerous Goods Act.
In 2021, WorkSafe destroyed 731 kilograms of fireworks that were seized or surrendered, compared with 626 kilograms in 2020.
Of the 116 people treated at emergency departments for fireworks-related injuries in the five years to June 2021, 75 per cent were male and more than a third were aged in their 20s.
CFA crews responded to more than a dozen fires and explosions across the state during the end-of-year celebrations of 2019 and 2020.
Fire Rescue Victoria Commissioner Ken Block said firefighters responded to 163 incidents involving fireworks in the past five years.
"Some of these fires have resulted in severe injuries, significant damage to property and even disruptions to the public transport network," he said.
"Many of the incidents were started by children and teens, so I urge all parents to talk to their children about the dangers of fireworks."
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Mr Myers said the other key message for people preparing for New Year's Eve celebrations was to become educated on campfires.
"I'd certainly encourage anyone that is planning on going and setting up a tent on the river and wanting to have a campfire, to make sure that they have a look at the CFA website ... and just become familiar with the restrictions around having a fire and what you need to do if you're going to light one," he said.
