General News
9 December, 2024
Fire crews battle tractor and haystack blazes with heightened risk
The CFA warned the summer outlook was for a hot and dry season.
Fire crews across the state have been warned to stay alert after the unseasonal wet weather has increased the risk of hay shed fires.
The return of traditional summer weather, combined with the extra moisture from the past week of rain, has elevated the combustion risk.
Fire crews near Wycheproof were called to a tractor that burst into flames south of the town.
Tankers from Wycheproof, Dumosa and Wycheproof South were called out on November 28 to watch the burning tractor and prevent the fire from spreading.
Earlier that week, crews were called to a haystack fire at Meehan Road, Cannie just to the north-east of the tractor fire.
Local residents were warned to be aware of smoke in the area as firefighters worked to pull apart the hay to extinguish the fire.
CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said the summer outlook was for a hot and dry season ahead.
He said five per cent of the fires CFA had investigated last fire danger period were related to machinery fires.
Mr Heffernan said fires on total fire ban days remained a major concern during the last fire danger period, with 449 incidents recorded.
"Total fire ban days are declared to minimise the risk of fires starting and spreading, so it's critical we see fewer avoidable incidents on these days," he said.
"Simple precautions like adhering to restrictions, planning ahead, and ensuring equipment is safe can help protect lives and property on these dangerous days."