08/13/2026
🚒 Fire & Emergency Services | Reducing the Risk of Bale Fires
Bale fires can develop days or even weeks after baling as moisture trapped inside the bale creates heat. Whether you're storing hay or straw, early detection is the key to preventing a devastating barn or storage fire.
Watch for the warning signs:
🌡️ Bale temperatures above 65°C indicate dangerous heating.
📞 Temperatures above 80°C? Call 9-1-1 immediately.
👃 A sweet, caramel-like or musty odour can indicate internal heating.
💨 Steam or hot spots within the stack are warning signs that should never be ignored.
Help prevent bale fires:
✅ Bale crops at the recommended moisture content.
🌡️ Monitor bale temperatures regularly using a hay temperature probe, especially during the first several weeks after storage.
🏠 Store bales in a well-ventilated area and away from ignition sources.
🚫 Do not move or separate overheated bales. Introducing oxygen can cause rapid fire development.
🚫 Despite common myths, adding salt does not prevent spontaneous combustion.
A few minutes of monitoring today can help protect your barn, livestock, equipment, feed, and livelihood.
Stay safe and have a successful harvest season!
Learn more about preventing bale fires:
https://fieldcropnews.com/2024/07/preventing-and-extinguishing-hay-fires/