AN earlier hay season has Victorian farmers and the CFA talking about the dangers of high moisture content in hay as they begin cutting, baling and storing it in warmer conditions.
A recent hay fire at Kerang saw seven hay sheds, each with 800 bales of hay, burnt in a damaging ember attack.
The blaze added to the 52 haystack fires responded to by volunteers across the state last financial year.
CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said hay baled with high moisture content could heat up like compost and could lead 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,” he said.
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“Hay fires are a real threat to properties and stock in primary production areas.
“Whether you’re a seasoned hay grower or 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.”
Mr Heffernan said farmers should regularly monitor the condition of their hay bales, which can be often ignited by lightning strikes or sparks from equipment.
“You should regularly monitor your haystacks by using a temperature probe or a crowbar to detect heating hay,” he said.
“Signs of heating can include steam rising from the stack or unusual odours like burning, must, pipe tobacco smell or caramel smell.
“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.”
For more information, visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au/plan-prepare/hay-and-fire-safety.
