As part of this, burn-offs are strictly prohibited unless accompanied by a council permit.

CFA Region 14 community safety manager David Allen said that while recent rain had dampened the ground, it was important to remain vigilant.

"Past experience has shown that the hot weather can continue well into March, so residents need to be fire aware and abide by the fire restriction rules. The rain was certainly welcome but several days of hot northerlies can still pose a fire risk, so it's important that residents are fire ready at all times."

Mr Allen said the fire danger period introduced on November 30 last year remained in place until May.

"Residents are also reminded that fire restrictions are being actively enforced and that CFA is taking a zero-tolerance approach to illegally lit fires - any such fires will be reported to Victoria Police."

The recent milder weather had helped to undertake several controlled burns in the region.

Details: www.cfa.vic.gov.au