A HEADER was destroyed by fire during harvesting in a Stony Creek paddock this week.
An RFS spokesman says crews were called about 6pm on Saturday and quickly discovered a small grassfire, and the header in the middle of it.
He says Koraleigh RFS crews quickly extinguished the grassfire but were unable to save the header.
“All fires were out by 7.30pm and fortunately no-one was hurt during the incident,” the spokesman said.
“But the header was a write-off – and an equally unfortunate incident that could perhaps have been avoided with some more detailed planning.
“NSW Rural Fire Service is warning residents of an increased risk of grassfires across the Mid Murray area over the coming months as the weather warms up.”
NSW RFS Superintendent Tony Whitehorn said two years of wet weather had led to prolific vegetation growth across NSW.
The state was now facing its most significant grass fire threat in more than a decade.
“It can take just a few days of hot, dry and windy weather for grasslands to cure and for fires take hold, even in areas which have experienced recent heavy rains and flooding,” Supt Whitehorn says.
“Grassfires can start easily and spread rapidly, threatening homes, crops and livelihoods,” he says.
“I urge Mid Murray and Mallee landholders to be aware of this increased threat and to prepare.
“Every landholder should have firefighting equipment on hand and ensure that it is in good working order.
“Mid Murray residents should also update and discuss their Bush Fire Survival Plan and know what they and their family will do if a fire threatens.”
The top five actions landholders can take to make their property safer are:
Clear and maintain firebreaks – to help prevent a fire spreading to or from your property.
Clear around assets and buildings – to help protect sheds and valuable equipment.
Rotate stock – to help reduce the risk and ensure paddocks are well-grazed.
Check for restrictions before starting fire – permits are required during the Bush Fire Danger Period.
Always check the conditions before using fire. On total fire ban days, all permits are suspended.
Check and maintain equipment – a build-up of debris can cause a fire, destroying equipment and crops.
Have firefighting equipment handy – maintain hoses and water pumps, and check your water supply.
“I urge everyone to use the Fires Near Me NSW app and set a Watch Zone to monitor fires in their area,” Supt Whitehorn said.
For information about preparing for grass fires, check www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/grass or visit www.myfireplan.com.au
