A burnoff is a move (generally the first move) performed by a Fire staff performer. The move is performed by rolling the staff along the outstretched palm (say the right hand) using the left hand to push the staff out. Burnoff is permitted by excess fuel in the wicks.
The aim when performing a burnoff is to roll the staff as fast as possible (causing the fuel to spray from the wick) making a flash fireball either end of the staff. It is advisable when performing this move that the staff is not thrown up, but kept close to hand level as possible, thus reducing the spread of the spray.
Moving one's hands off center of the staff, causing the staff to turn 180 degrees, making a fireball circle.
Holding the staff horizontally in the helicopter position and throwing up while rolling off the palm, causing the staff to burnoff in a helix spin.