Haystack fires

There has been an unusually large number of haystack fires across Victoria this season. It is not entirely clear why these fires are continuing to occur.

To help stop these fires starting and spreading, CFA is encouraging farmers to:

• monitor stacks for signs of heating;

• keep all vehicles and equipment well away from hay; and

• where possible, construct fire breaks around stacks and sheds.

CFA is surveying people who have had a haystack fire this season.

Fore more information on this issue:

• See the What happens when hay heats Information Note, available on the Department Primary Industries website www.dpi.vic.gov.au.

• Visit the CFA website at www.cfa.vic.gov.au/business/farms/on_the_land.htm for more information about a booklet, On the Land, that CFA has recently produced about farm fire safety.

• Contact Jill Allen j.allen@cfa.vic.gov.au for a free copy of On the Land or for information about the CFA haystack fire survey.