Controlled burn-offs, like this one in bush near Ballarat, Australia, and top right, get rid of the build-up of bark and fallen branches, which can cause wild fires to be more intense and dangerous. Photos supplied. : Firefighters learn burn-off tips

Otago Doc rural firefighter Patrik Eschenmoser cuts a hole in a tree so a fire burning in a hollow trunk near Ballarat can be put out. : Firefighters learn burn-off tips

Doc rural firefighters Gavin Udy, Shayne Pearce and Glenn Fyfe take a break from a controlled burn at Rocklands Reservoir in Australia. : Firefighters learn burn-off tips

Firefighters learn burn-off tips : Firefighters learn burn-off tips