Cotton growers and contractors are urged to remain vigilant after numerous cotton modules were lost to fire on a farm and one lost at a gin.

Cotton can still catch fire even when it is dry, with sparks from pickers overheating in high temperatures being a known cause.

To help prevent module fires:

• Keep an eye on machinery and stop if you smell smoke.
• Spread modules out to prevent fire from spreading.
• Monitor modules—recent fires started five days after picking.

Recent reports highlight the risk of sending modules to gins if there are any signs they may be susceptible to fire.