Header fires a timely reminder

Every year, SA Country Fire Service (CFS) volunteer firefighters respond to numerous header fires across the state.

During harvest season, farmers need to stay alert to the risk of machinery-related fires. With a quick response from Farm Fire Units and CFS crews, these fires are usually contained quickly however where harvest coincides with extreme fire danger weather, a single spark can escalate into a fast-moving grass or crop fire within minutes.

What causes header fires?

Header fires typically start when heat, fuel and oxygen come together. Common causes include overheated bearings, blocked exhaust systems, electrical faults, and the build-up of dust and crop residue around hot engine components. Once ignited, fires can spread rapidly through dry crops, threatening lives, livestock, machinery, and nearby properties.

The impact of a header fire can be devastating. Beyond the immediate loss of crops and equipment, fires can disrupt harvest operations, damage fencing and infrastructure, and place neighbouring farms and communities at risk. In severe cases, these fires can develop into large-scale incidents that stretch emergency response resources and place firefighters in dangerous conditions.

Managing risks when harvesting

To help manage these risks, the Grain Harvesting Code of Practice outlines required and recommended safety measures for harvesting and grain handling operations. This includes guidance on the operation of grain harvesters, vehicles transporting grain, grain augers and grain dryers. The Code is designed to reduce the likelihood of fires starting and to improve preparedness should one occur.

However, fire prevention doesn’t always require complex solutions. Simple, practical actions can make a real difference, particularly on high-risk days. 

• Regular maintenance including checking bearings, belts, and electrical systems before and during harvest can help identify issues before they lead to ignition 
• Clearing built-up dust, chaff and crop residue from headers and engine bays reduces available fuel and allows heat to dissipate more effectively.
• Harvesters should be equipped with appropriate firefighting equipment, such as water tanks, fire extinguishers and shovels, all of which should be easily accessible and in good working order. 
• Maintain situational awareness, monitoring weather conditions and adjusting operations during periods of extreme heat, strong winds or elevated fire danger ratings.
• Having a clear plan in place can significantly reduce response times if a fire does start. 
• Knowing when to stop harvesting, how to alert others, and how to safely attack a small fire before it spreads can prevent a minor incident from becoming a major emergency.

Header fires are a real and ongoing risk during the South Australian harvest season, but with vigilance, preparation and adherence to best practice guidelines, that risk can be reduced. 

Taking the time to prepare not only protects individual farms, but also helps safeguard volunteers, neighbours and the wider community during the Fire Danger Season.