Since summer kicked off, CFA volunteers have been called out to more than 30 incidents involving haystacks.
On March 23, CFA crews responded to reports of a haystack fire in Wilby where units from multiple local brigades found more than 3,000 bales issuing smoke.
Luckily members were able to save a large portion of the stack but 200 bales were lost.
CFA spokesman, Mick Sporton, said recent rain caused the bales to spontaneously combust.
“It is important people check the internal temperature of their bales regularly to ensure they aren’t heating up too much,” Mick said.
“A moist environment allows microorganisms to grow inside the hay bales which generate heat, and if it remains undetected the rising can ignite a fire.”
Mick said the temperature of haystacks could be monitored using a temperature probe or crowbar.
“If there are signs that the hay is starting to heat up, pull the stack apart to improve airflow and allow the bales to cool,” he said.
“Keep an eye out for steam rising from haystacks, condensation or corrosion under the hayshed roof or mould growing on the bales.
“The hay make slump in sections and can produce unusual odours like a burning, musty, caramel smell.
“It is best to limit the size of your haystacks and store hay in different locations away from vehicles and machinery.
More information on haystack fires and what to do to prevent them can be found on CFA’s website at www.cfa.vic.gov.au/hay
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