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Warning of haystack fires leading into summer

October 16, 2024 6:56 am in by

The CFA is warning of haystack fires as we head into warmer weather.

There were over 120 haystack fires in regional Victoria in the last financial year, including one at Piangil last November.

The fires are often caused by spontaneous combustion, when the hay is baled with too much moisture.

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But the fire authority says the haystack fire season has started earlier than usual due to the dry conditions.

They say the drier conditions could make any haystack fires more destructive if they spread.

CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan says that early preparation and proper storage are essential in reducing the risk of haystack fires.

“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.”

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Image: https://pixabay.com/photos/haystack-wheat-field-agriculture-4329609/

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