An early hay season in the west of Victoria and early fire risks in parts of the state have raised a timely reminder to farmers to take extra care to prevent haystack fires.
The CFA responded to 121 haystack fires in regional areas in the 12 months up to July this year, with one third occurring in central, eastern and northeast Victoria.
Haystack fires can be caused by spontaneous combustion when hay is baled with excess moisture.
High moisture levels and the compact nature of hay bales can cause bacteria to create internal heat which can lead to ignition.
Timing of hay baling is key to reducing the risk of, with bailing of rain or dew-covered hay resulting in too much moisture.
Cosgrove and Pine Lodge CFA brigade captain Jason Watts said it was common for his brigade to attend local haystack fires and that all bale types needed monitoring.
“We have had hay fires most seasons,” Captain Watts said.
“We had one on Boundary Rd last year just before Christmas on some large square bales; it can affect any sized bale, round or square.
“We encourage farmers to exercise caution; make sure your hay is well cured before baling.”
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said early preparation and proper storage are essential in reducing the risk of haystack fires.
"With over 120 haystack fires in the past year, the impact on farmers and their livelihoods is clear," Mr Heffernan said.
"Haystack fires can have far-reaching effects beyond individual properties, impacting neighbouring farms and emergency services.
“Make sure you store your hay in separate stacks or in sheds away from farm equipment and other buildings to prevent the spread of fire.”
For more information, visit https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/plan-prepare/how-to-prepare-your-property/farms/hay-fire-safety
Haystack safety tips
- Ensure hay is well cured before baling.
- Know the history of any purchased hay.
- Keep haystacks to a limited size and keep separated.
- Monitor moisture and temperature regularly.
- Watch for unusual odours such as pipe tobacco, caramel, burning or musty smells.
- Store hay away from farm equipment and other buildings.
- Keep hay dry by protecting it from rain, leaking roofs or spouts and rain runoff by covering with tarpaulins or hay caps.
- Don't stack hay right to the top of a hay shed - allow some air to circulate at the top to carry away moisture.
What to do when your hay is overheating (degrees Celsius)
- Use a thermometer in a probe or insert a crowbar into the middle of the stack for 2 hours.
- Less than 50ºC: crowbar can be handled without discomfort - check temperature daily.
- 50 - 60ºC: can only handle crowbar for short time - check temperature twice daily.
- 60 - 70ºC: can touch bar only briefly - check temperature every 2 – 4 hours and move hay to improve air flow.
- Over 70ºC: bar is too hot to hold - potential for fire. Call 000 immediately. Avoid walking on top of haystack. At this stage pulling apart the hay may provide the oxygen it needs to ignite.