Harvest Safety Alert - MIA District

16 December 2024

Due to the increased risk of fire in the MIA district which encompasses the LGA's of Hay, Carrathool, Griffith, Leeton and Murrumbidgee the Rural Fire Service (RFS) is requesting harvest operators to imminently top and check local weather conditions before deciding whether it is safe to continue harvesting.

Those conducting harvesting are advised to:

• Stop: Stop Harvesting Operations
• Check: Check weather conditions, check the grain harvesting guide, and check you equipment.
• Decide: Only resume operations if safe to do so and regularly assess the conditions.

Under current conditions, fires will start easily and spread rapidly. They have the potential to threaten life and property, as well as destroying millions of dollars worth of crop and equipment.

The RFS appreciate the cooperation of farmers on days of heightened danger. Stopping harvesting until weather conditions ease lowers the risk of fires breaking out and can prevent a great deal of damage.

For information on harvest safety Alerts and the Grain Harvesting Guide visit: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/harvesting-guide