FIREFIGHTERS have managed to contain a large bushfire that was burning out of control near Newcastle yesterday.

About 120 NSW Rural Fire Service and Fire Rescue NSW firefighters worked throughout the night to backburn and contain the fire.

The blaze scorched more than 200ha in very high fire danger conditions and was threatening properties in Edgeworth, Barnsley and Argenton.

"Due to the good work of firefighters from both FRNSW and RFS no homes were destroyed and the fire has been contained," RFS chief superintendent Bob Murray said in a statement.

"While the fire is now contained, fire crews will remain on scene throughout the day, supported by a water bombing aircraft, to deal with any hot-spots."

Supt Murray urged people to prepare for the bushfire season, saying there was no room for complacency.

"Everyone should be using this time to prepare their properties, such as clearing their gutters and removing fuel from around their homes," he said.

"All households should have a bushfire survival plan, so residents know what to do, particularly on days of increased fire danger."