Do you need to leave the area on total fire ban days?

Hi, my partner and i have been thinking about moving to Belgrave, Belgrave Heights, Tecoma area or around the foot of the hills. We are at the top of the Mornington Peninsula so we are used to travel, it'll actually be closer to the city for us. It gets extremely busy here in summer, which is what we want to escape.
Our only concern is bush fires. I read on another thread that it was recommended to leave the area during total fire ban days? Given we have two dogs, work in the city and are hoping to start a family, this will make leaving on those days a little difficult. Our closest family/friends will be at least over an hour away and they won't be able to accommodate all of us.
Would living a little closer to the suburbs, like the bottom end of Tecoma or Belgrave Heights reduce that risk so we wouldn't have to leave on those days or should we be looking even further in?
My partner grew up in the country and in a fire prone area, so he is familiar with fire plans and making the house as fire resistant as possible.
We love the area so any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks :)