UPDATE: A large haystack fire near Berrigan today kicked off a few days of "challenging" conditions for firefighters.
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The fire broke out near Reynoldsons Road and the Riverina Highway west of the Berrigan township just after 9am with NSW Rural Fire Service crews taking most of the day to contain the blaze.
Southern Border Team Superintendent Pat Westwood said haystack fires can burn for "days, weeks and even months".
"There is a threat that the fire could escape in the next few days," he said.
"Weather over the next few days is going to be somewhat challenging and we ask everyone to take care when working outside and be careful if undertaking any activities which might start a fire.
"This year has been an extraordinary year for fires.
"We have deployed more than 180 firefighters and staff to other fires since August and we expect this to only continue."
Superintendent Westwood said a 10 more firefighters are being deployed today to the Currowan fire in northern NSW.
"There were 27 who returned from our strike crews on Boxing Day after giving up their Christmas Day to help with strategic backburning and property protection in the Shoalhaven area," he said.
"We want to take this time to thank everyone who has given their time and the local businesses and families who allowed this to happen.
"This is also a timely reminder to have a discussion with your family about what you will do in the event of a fire.
"Familiarise yourself with the different public warnings and what they mean."
EARLIER: Firefighters are battling a large haystack fire near Berrigan.
The fire was fully alight when crews arrived just after 9am to a property between Reynoldsons Road and the Riverina Highway west of Berrigan.
NSW RFS Southern Border Team Superintendent Pat Westwood said firefighters are looking to contain the blaze.
"It is quite a large shed with square hay bales involved," he said.
IN OTHER NEWS:
"It has some threat of escaping over the next few days as we know haybale fires can burn for days, weeks and even months.
"Firefighters are looking to ensure the fire is contained."
Superintendent Westwood said the weather over the next few days on the Border will be "somewhat challenging".
"Take extra care outside when you are undertaking any activities that could result in a fire," he said.
The fire is out of control.
More to come.
