Last year, CFA responded to 819 callouts for escaped burn-offs, with 48 per cent (396 incidents) happening in September, October and November alone.
This trend appeared to be ongoing this year, with CFA responding to 37 incidents between September 1 and 20.
CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said this number was far too high and emphasised the widespread impact escaped burn-offs have.
“We are aiming for a significant reduction in escaped burn-off incidents this season as we head towards the FDP,” Mr Heffernan said.
“Last year’s numbers, especially during spring, placed an unnecessary strain on CFA crews, neighbouring properties and the community.
“Letting a burn-off escape during the FDP can result in severe penalties, including heavy fines and liability for damages caused.”
Under the CFA Act, penalties for allowing a burn-off to escape during a declared FDP can include fines up to $23,710, 12 months imprisonment, or both.
The penalty is doubled if an escape occurs on a total fire ban day.
