Victoria has activated its Night Aviation Program as part of the state’s preparations for the highest fire risk period of summer.

The program, now in its seventh year, has three helicopters engaged for night aviation operations based in Essendon Airport that are part of the state’s 50-strong firefighting fleet.

It also has two night firebombing helicopters, including a CH47 Chinook which has already been supporting operations during the day.

An aerial intelligence gathering Firebird 308 helicopter is supporting night operations, aided by new technology including an infra-red high-definition video camera.

The Government says the helicopters have the ability to be deployed across the state and night crews are highly experienced and will complete reconnaissance flights during the afternoon before conducting water bombing flights at night.

“As grasses dry out, the night aviation fleet provides a vital extra element in our efforts to protect communities across the state. This is the period where we know risk can be higher, and we’re remaining vigilant night and day,” Minister for Emergency Services Jaclyn Symes said.

“I want to also thank the crews and personnel who have been operating aircraft right across Victoria through the massive flooding event – I saw first-hand the difference these assets made to regional communities.”