Preventing Baler Fires During Hay Season

Farmers urged to maintain balers to reduce fire risks

Many part of the country are currently seeing abnormally dry to moderate drought, while other regions are getting regular rainfall. Still, the risk of baler fires continues due to large amounts of dry plant material. 

“It seems odd to think about the risk of baler fires right now, as the grass is still green in many areas where hay is still being harvested,” said Tom Clays, North Dakota Forest Service Director.  

“However, the amount of ‘fuel’ or biomass out there in the ditches, meadows and Conservation Reserve Program areas is substantial this year. There’s enough ‘fuel’ out there that can easily catch fire with just one spark and quickly become out of control.” 

“A common cause of baler fires is mechanical issues, primarily problems with roller bearings found within the baler,” said Angie Johnson, North Dakota State University Extension farm and ranch safety specialist. “The roller bearings inside the baler can easily become damaged due to wear and extended use.” 

As the season progresses, hay becomes drier, and the fire risk increases. Dust, static electricity, and friction add to this danger. 

Johnson suggests daily visual inspections when the baler and tractor are off. She recommends checking belts, chains, hoses, and bearings. Look for purple discoloration or loose belts, which can indicate friction or hot spots. 

Farmers should clean the baler every 50–75 bales using an air compressor and follow the lubrication guide from the machine’s manual. An infrared heat thermometer, available for $20–$40, helps detect overheating bearings before a fire starts. 

She also urges farmers to carry a working fire extinguisher, a charged cellphone, and inform others of their baling schedule. “A baler can be replaced. You can’t,” she says. 

If a fire starts, call 911 immediately.