Hay season comes early in the west amid heightened fire risk

Between June 30, 2023, and July 1, 2024, CFA responded to 121 haystack fires in regional areas, with 66 per cent occurring in the west and northwest of the state.  

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. 

Daniel Mibus, 1st Lieutenant of the Green Lake Fire Brigade and a farmer near Horsham, emphasised the risks associated with the early hay season and dry conditions. 

"Compared to the last two years, because it has been so dry, hay season has started more than a month earlier, with bailing already having begun in some parts of the west," Daniel said.  

"Although haystack fires can occur in both wet and dry conditions, the drier conditions this year could make them more destructive if they spread." 

Daniel advised that the timing of hay baling is key to reducing the risk of spontaneous combustion and one of the best safety measures you can take.  

"If you’re baling too early in the day when it’s dewy, or after it’s just rained, there could be too much moisture in the bales, which may lead to problems later," Daniel said.  

"Keep an eye on your stacks. If something smells off, check it out. Conditions within the bales can change quickly, so if you’re unsure, check them every day. 

"Investing in a temperature probe to monitor the haystack's condition is a great starting point, which could ultimately prevent your haystack from burning down." 

CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan reinforced that 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," Jason 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.  

“Farmers need to ensure they're well-prepared – regular monitoring can prevent a small issue from becoming a much larger one.” 

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.