CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan wants farmers to take extra precautions with burn-offs.
Mr Heffernan said almost half of brigade calls to escaped burn-offs last season came in at 48 per cent (396 incidents) occurring in September, October, and November. He said that number was too high.
“We are aiming for a significant reduction in escaped burn-off incidents this season.
“Letting a burn-off escape during the fire danger period can result in severe penalties, including heavy fines and liability for damages caused.” 
Mr Heffernan said neighbours should be told of a burn-off, the weather forecast checked, a fire break formed and the burn registered on the Fire Permits Victoria website.