Victoria fire danger still serious: CFA

Recent rain has led to a spike in Victorians burning rubbish, despite the state remaining in a fire danger period.

Open-air fires are banned and police say they have prosecuted a number of property owners as a result.

It comes as the Country Fire Authority urges people not to become complacent, with high temperatures certain to return.

"Although we have received significant rain, areas remain extremely dry and still pose a fire risk," Loddon Mallee CFA regional controller Mark Gilmore said on Thursday.

Residents can apply for permits for essential burns.