The ratings start from low to moderate with a Fire Danger Index from 0-11, High FDI 12-14, Very High FDI 25-49, Severe FDI 50-74, Extreme 75-99 and Catastrophic FDI 100 and above.

When temperatures hit the 40s last week it was the first time a catastrophic (code red) day was announced.

“We have had many catastrophic days before, but now that it is labelled as catastrophic it is being blown out of proportion,” Group officer of Horrocks (CFS) group Chris Sullivan said.

Residents in areas with a catastrophic (code red) warning were being urged by the mainstream media to pack up and leave or stay and protect their homes.

But without a fire on the day it was unnecessary for them to pack their bags and leave, creating some confusion, when it was just a hot day.

“We have had record temperatures and hot spells, it has come along much quicker creating a lot of concern,” Clare and Gilbert Valleys Council CEO Roy Blight said.

Mr Blight said on days of high temperature forecasts, residents could head to the Valleys Lifestyle Centre or the library to keep cool.

“If there isn’t a fire and it is a catastrophic danger day and you don’t feel safe at home, head somewhere you feel safe, but let someone know where and when you are going, in case something happens,” Mr Sullivan said.

“But if there is a fire, assess the situation and if you are going to leave, leave in plenty of time, don’t wait until the fire is coming over the hill.”

Forecasts for the rest of the week are showing rain and in the high 20s according to the Bureau of Meteorology.

“People are panicking, it’s (catastrophic days) been there before but never labelled, we are going to continue to have these days throughout summer and it will become a common thing,” Mr Sullivan said.

For the schools there are new policies for closing high-risk schools when catastrophic conditions are forecast.