CFA warning after haystack fires destroy 1700 bales

CFA crews at a haystack fire in Coonooer West CFA crews at a haystack fire in Coonooer West

 

CFA is reminding farmers about the risks of improper hay storage after two devastating haystack fires destroyed at least 1700 hay bales in separate parts of the state recently.

 

A fire in Coonooer West on Tuesday (10 Dec) claimed 1,200 bales, a hayshed, and several pieces of machinery, while just last week a fire in Naring saw another 500 bales destroyed. 

Haystack fires are often caused by spontaneous combustion when hay is baled with excess moisture. High moisture levels, combined with the compact nature of hay bales, can create internal heat, leading to ignition. 

Between 30 June 2023, and 1 July 2024, CFA responded to 121 haystack fires in regional areas. 

CFA District 16 Assistant Chief Fire Officer Stephen Alcock said the incidents served as a reminder for farmers to closely monitor their haystacks. 

“These fires demonstrate the devastating impact haystack fires can have," Stephen said.  

"Once a fire starts, it spreads rapidly through the bales, making it extremely challenging to contain.  

"High moisture levels in hay, often from baling too early in the day when it’s dewy or after rain, are a major contributor to spontaneous combustion."  

He also stressed the dangers of storing machinery with hay bales. 

"Storing machinery with hay bales is a recipe for disaster," he said.  

"If a fire starts in the haystack, it can quickly spread to nearby machinery, which can halt important farming operations until new equipment arrives." 

"The safest option is to store hay in a separate area well away from equipment and other buildings. 

"Haystack fires don’t just affect individual properties; they can spread to neighbouring farms and require extensive emergency services resources. 

"Regular monitoring and proper storage can turn what might have been a major issue into something manageable." 

For more information, visit CFA’s website or contact your local CFA brigade for advice on haystack safety. 

Haystack Tips            

  • Ensure hay is well cured before baling.  
  • Know the history of the hay you purchase. 
  • Keep haystacks to a limited size and separate your haystacks. 
  • Monitor moisture and temperature of your hay regularly. 
  • Watch for unusual odours such as pipe tobacco, caramel, burning or musty smells. 
  • Store hay in separate stacks or sheds away from farm equipment and other buildings. 
  • Keep your hay dry. Protect it from rain, leaking rooves or spouts, and runoff. Cover stacks with tarps or hay caps. 
  • Don't stack hay right to the top of a hay shed. Allow some air to circulate at the top - this helps to carry away moisture. 

Temperature Guide (degree Celsius) – what to do when your hay is overheating 
Use a thermometer in a probe or insert a crowbar into the middle of the stack for 2 hours. 

  • Less than 50 Can handle the crowbar without discomfort 
    Check temperature daily. 
  • 50 - 60 Can only handle crowbar for short time 
    Check temperature twice daily. 
  • 60 - 70 Can touch bar only briefly 
    Check temperature every 2 – 4 hours. Move hay to improve air flow. 
  • Over 70 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. 

For more information, please visit here. 

 

Submitted by CFA Media