BENTON COUNTY, Wash.-Fire crews responded to a haystack fire on the afternoon of June 23 and are using the blaze as an opportunity to remind residents of the importance of safely disposing of yard waste.
Benton County Fire District #1 responded to the haystack fire on Nine Canyon Road in Benton County shortly before 3 p.m.
The haystack was fully burning when firefighters arrived on scene and the fire spread to two more haystacks and some grass in the area before it was put out. About an acre of grass was burned in total, according to BCFD1.
Fire crews stayed on scene for a few hours to ensure the fire did not re-ignite. Although the fire is considered out, it could still smolder for days.
While this fire involved a haystack, it is a good reminder of the fire dangers that yard waste, including grass clippings pose.
According to Jenna Kochenauer with BCFD1, if grass is wet when it’s cut it can cause a chemical reaction when the internal temperature of the pile reaches more than 135 degrees.
Grass clippings should be kept at least 10 feet away from any structures, including sheds or homes.
