The council has appointed a dedicated fire officer, Tanya Winn, as part of a wider team working to help residents in their fire preparedness.

Ms Winn, who has more than 20 years of experience in emergency management with rural fire service organisations, said building community confidence was a vital part of being prepared.

"It's important for people to understand where they can go for information and assistance, to feel confident processing the information and practise their plans so they can act calmly and efficiently should an emergency occur."

Ms Winn said the most important message was for people to be well prepared and to act early. In the coming months, Ms Winn will attend community bushfire and township meetings and work to raise awareness of bushfire preparedness in Cardinia Shire.

Mayor Bill Pearson said the approach of summer was a timely reminder for residents to work out their emergency fire plans.

"We want the whole community to be fire ready early," he said.

"The message is plain - be prepared, take early action and ensure you survive. Residents should also update family phone lists, make provision for their medications and think about alternative accommodation on Code Red days or in the event of fire."

For more information about the "Prepare. Act. Survive" campaign, visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au or www.cardinia.vic.gov.au or phone 1300 787 624.