AS HAY season runs three weeks ahead of time and farmers start to bale their hay in late September, the CFA is calling on everyone to be attuned to the risks of spontaneous combustion.
Although there have been wetter-than-usual summers for the past three years, the CFA still responded to more than 52 haystack-related fires between July 1 2022 and June 30 this year.
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said if hay was baled with high moisture content and was green, it could heat up like compost, leading to spontaneous combustion weeks or months later.
“Farmers who have decided to carry on with hay production need to be extra vigilant this year to make sure conditions are right for making hay and for the future storage and transport as well,” Mr Heffernan said.
“Hay fires are a real threat to properties and stock in primary production areas.
“Whether you’re a seasoned hay grower or are switching to hay this year, it’s imperative to take care of your hay and crops this fire season.
“Consider the storage of your hay to avoid spontaneous combustion, which can lead to ignition.”
When hay is either not properly cured and dried out before baling, or is not stored to protect it from rain or damp conditions, moisture content in the bales can be higher than the recommended level.
If this hay is stored in environments with high temperatures and little airflow, a biological reaction could lead to a fire.
Haystack fires can also start easily from lightning strikes or sparks from equipment.
“You should regularly monitor your haystacks by using a temperature probe or a crowbar to detect heating hay,” Mr Heffernan said.
“Signs of heating hay can include steam rising from the stack or unusual odours like burning, must or the smell of pipe tobacco or caramel.
“By being vigilant, you’re protecting yourself from the financial impact of losing valuable fodder, and protecting your property and family from the potential danger of hay fires.”
