Ten Barn Fires Blaze Since July – Wet Weather Sparks Danger!
Since early July, ten barns have been torched across the UK. The main culprit? Spontaneous combustion of soggy hay. Rainy spells have made cutting and storing dry hay tricky, raising fears of more infernos to come.
What’s Behind the Blaze?
Showery weather means farmers may have baled damp hay. When moisture tops 22%, chemical reactions heat up the hay. If it hits 55°C, flammable gases form, ready to ignite and set barns alight.
Wayne Rawlins, Area Manager at Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, warns:
“We want local farmers to know it’s crucial to check haystack temperatures. Barn fires are catastrophic and tough to tackle. Hay is precious, so preventing fires is key.”
Top Tips to Keep Hay Fires at Bay
- Harvest and remove hay from fields quickly.
- Make sure hay is properly dry before storing.
- Keep hay and straw stacks well away from buildings, fuels, chemicals, and livestock.
- Stack hay at least 10 metres apart and leave room between stacks and electric roof lights.
- Be extra vigilant in the six weeks after baling — this is prime fire risk time.
- Regularly check hay temperature with a probe thermometer.
- If hay smells sweet like caramel or musty, it’s heating up dangerously.
- When stacks hit 65°C, you’re in the danger zone. Check temps daily from that point.
Farmers must act fast to stop more barns going up in flames as wet weather lingers. Stay dry, stay safe!
