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.
The warning comes after a significant haystack fire in Lockington on September 12, which affected around 120 bales.
According to the CFA, there are several factors that can increase the risk of haystack fires.
There are several things landowners can do to reduce the risk of haystack fires.
They warn landowners to make sure hay does not have too much moisture when it is baled, as this can build up heat to the point that a fire starts.
The CFA also advises regularly monitoring haystacks in the weeks after baling, and keeping them well-ventilated.
Where possible, haystacks should also be separated into smaller stacks to avoid having a large amount of hay stored together.
Sheds, gutters and downpipes should also be properly maintained to reduce the risk of water getting into stored hay.
Checking the temperature of hay is also important.
This can be done using traditional temperature probes as well as newer technology that can provide remote readings and alerts.
If a haystack is getting unusually hot, that can be a warning sign that something is happening inside the stack, and it needs to be taken seriously
For more information, visit CFA’s website or contact your local CFA brigade for advice on haystack safety
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