Authorities want to avoid a repeat of a horror 2022/23 harvest season where North West region incidents contributed to almost half of harvester fires statewide.
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A total of 17 harvester fires ignited in the North West CFA region, which stretches Bendigo to Echuca, from July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023, according to the Country Fire Authority.
The number was the highest out of all the Victorian CFA districts, which equated to 41 total harvester fires statewide.
"Unfortunately, we encounter a large number of fires igniting from farm machinery and vehicles each year in Victoria," CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said.
Hot and dry conditions during Spring 2023 had brought an earlier harvest, which came with elevated risks of fire ignition and spread.
"We are entering a more standard summer fire season this year, so we know there will be a large amount of dry fine fuel ready to burn as the vegetation continues to dry out," CO Heffernan said.
"We know how quickly small fires can spread to nearby paddocks, so it is imperative that our farmers are prepared before jumping on the harvest."
Material collecting on hot engine components in the manifold, exhaust and turbocharger were the most common causes of harvester fires, CO Hefferman said, as he urged farmers to clean down and inspect equipment thoroughly before use.
Farmers were also urged to check the Grain Harvesting Operations Guide before harvesting.
"Hot and dry conditions are a particular concern for CFA, so always carry a water fire extinguisher and postpone paddock work during the highest fire-risk periods," CO Hefferman said
Crop and Farm Machinery Fire Safety
- The most common cause of harvester fires is material collecting on hot engine components such as the manifold, exhaust and turbocharger.
- Make it part of your routine to check for straw or grass build-up, and hot bearings.
- Make sure your machinery is free of faults and mechanical defects and carrying a water fire extinguisher.
- Postpone paddock work during the highest fire-risk periods. On hot, dry days, exercise extreme caution before harvesting, grinding, welding, slashing or mowing.
- The key to avoiding harvester fires is diligence in maintenance such as clean-down and inspection.
- During paddock operations have the appropriate firefighting equipment in place. You're required by law to have a 9-litre water pressured extinguisher on hand.
- Avoid driving vehicles and motorbikes through dry grass or crop - the risk from the hot exhaust system is high.
- More information here.Hot and dry conditions paired with high fuel loads will see this year's agricultural events kicking off sooner with elevated risks of fire ignition and spread.
