Elmore Leading Senior Constable Shane Bourke said isolated CFA sheds in the bush were especially at risk, sitting well away from homes and other occupied buildings where someone might notice trouble.
“Unfortunately, these locations because of their isolation sometimes are targeted by thieves,” he said.
Items at risk include generators, chainsaws, mechanical tools and other essential gear — and police warn losing this equipment could seriously hamper volunteer brigades when they are needed most.
Senior Constable Bourke noted much of the CFA's equipment is funded by the local community, meaning replacing stolen gear is not only costly but can take considerable time.
“It’s disappointing people have the intention of breaking in or stealing from CFA sheds,” he said.
“It’s like, really, it’s part of your community, we're coming into summer.
“Some things should just be left untouched.”
Police are not disclosing which CFA stations have been targeted.
Senior Constable Bourke said residents could play an important role by keeping an eye on sheds when driving past and reporting anything suspicious.
“If they see the door open or something similar, report it to police and we can take appropriate actions,” he said.
He said the warning was intended to make people more aware of what was happening in their communities rather than cause alarm.
“The more people look out for it, the better,” he said.
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