Bushfire warning for WA this summer

West Australians should prepare for a blistering summer with an increased likelihood of bushfires, fire authorities are warning.

There will be "above normal fire potential" in WA's South West region this summer because of a lack of rain, soil dryness and high fuel loads.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services warns high fuel loads will also increase the possibility of bushfires in the South East, Murchison, Goldfields and Desert areas.

DFES country assistant commissioner Graham Swift said residents should prepare for the fire season with a 20 metre protection zone around their home and a bushfire survival plan.

Fire crews responded to 3900 bushfires in WA last summer.