Rural
19 September, 2024
CFA warns of harvest fire risk
Following 45 header fires during harvest season in the far north-west, authorities are reminding grain growers to make machinery maintenance a priority.
While fires in cropping paddocks during harvest have long been part of Wimmera Mallee farming, occurring at a frequency higher than elsewhere in Victoria, on average CFA fights more than 200 header- and harvest-related fires across the state each year.
And the brigades locally are no exception, with CFA group officer of Rainbow, Nathan Smith, confirming his group usually attend a fire or two a year resulting from harvest machinery.
"It depends on the year and the fuel loads," Mr Smith said.
"Lentils are an issue with the dust from them, but there are always one or two fires most years with something that wears out on a header.
"You just have to go over the machines to attempt to get rid of most of the risk.
"No matter what, there is always a risk being out in the paddock and you can never negate 100 per cent of that, but it's about trying to reduce that risk by maintaining things properly."
A report by CFA District 18 found fires were spanning up to 535 hectares, needing attention from 737 volunteers, 169 CFA vehicles and 16 aircraft for support.
District 18 assistant chief fire officer Gavin Wright said interviews with controllers of incidents and grain growers had explored factors that led to ignitions, in conjunction with local factors such as dust, extreme heat and wind.
“Each year we see a similar pattern of ignition, with header hygiene a main cause where chaff, dust and residue build up around the exhaust system and cause concern,” Mr Wright said.
“Bearing collapse or seizing of bearings also plays a large role and annual replacement is strongly suggested, as is the use of an infra-red thermometer to detect failure early.
“Often a piece of wire or a stone may get stuck in the back rotary beater or in the seed destructor too, and header pullies can be overtightened and overheat.
“We suggest a qualified header mechanic should conduct all repairs and that farmers use a high-capacity air compressor to blow down the header regularly.”
While fires can occur even after the most stringent controls, it is important ignitions do not occur during periods of elevated fire danger.
“As a farming community, we understand the decision to cease harvesting activities is not a simple one, with grain growers relying on the brief window of time they have alongside weather and financial pressures,” Mr Wright said.
“However, be aware of any known risks or idiosyncrasies in your machinery that may increase the risk of fire and ensure you are carrying a method of water extinguishment at all times.”
Farmers are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the harvest pre-season checklist at cfa.vic.gov.au/harvest