The ACT bushfire season started yesterday, and experts warn a dry winter and an increase in forest fuel will result in increased risk.

The Emergency Services Agency says all indicators suggest above-average bushfire risk and preparations should be made for a challenging season.

“Our drier than average winter has created potentially hazardous fire conditions for this summer,” Police and Emergency Services Minister Mick Gentleman said.

“This increases the importance of being fully prepared before the bushfires start.”

He says the ACT Government is well-advanced with preparations for the bushfire season, “including our ongoing hazard reduction burning program, targeted grazing and pre-season training for ACT Rural Fire Service brigades and Parks and Conservation personnel”.