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The problem centres around lithium-ion batteries that can get very hot if left exposed to sunlight.
While there is always the problem of security, the recent hot spell has also exposed safety risks.
With cordless power tools becoming more common for use off the grid, safety concerns are being raised about the fire risks of devices left unattended in tractors, utes and other vehicles.
The problem centres around lithium-ion batteries that can get very hot if left exposed to sunlight and, if temperatures get hot enough, could explode. Safety advisors suggest that with recent daily temperatures reaching the high 20’s, the internal temperature of parked vehicles can easily approach 40 degrees C when left in direct sunlight. As the lithium-ion battery is an essential part of devices such as mobile phones, laptops and power tools, they should always be stored correctly, preferably, in the case of power tool, with the battery removed from the tool.
Indeed, quite recently, this writer experienced the issue, when he left an i-Phone in the central cubby of an SUV, while he did a 15-minute dash around a supermarket. On his return, he found the phone, protected in a matt black case, was very hot to the touch and displayed a message that read, “This device is overheated, please allow to cool before use”.
In transport circles, lithium-ion batteries are classified as dangerous goods under the Dangerous Goods Code, so every effort should be taken to transport them safely and remove fire risks by storing them away from direct sunlight.
The arrival of new F8 and F9 designations for its 8000 and 9000 series forage harvesters, signals a swag of upgrades from John Deere, highlighted by topping the 1000hp mark for the first time.
Waikato-Bay of Plenty farmer Hugh Jackson recently secured this year’s FMG Young Farmer of the Year title in Invercargill.
Ashburton-based Carrfields has signed an agreement with Manitou to take over the distribution and retail rights for Manitou Agricultural Equipment covering the lower North Island and the South Island, effective August 1, 2025.
With June ending and following the most upbeat National Fieldays for several years, tractor dealers are reporting a lift in sales.
Samasz distributor FarmShop has introduced the new XDF Series Front Mowers, said to be refined for local conditions and to improve cutting precision and wear resistance.
Alliance has announced a series of capital raise roadshow event, starting on 29 September in Tuatapere, Southland.
State farmer Pāmu (Landcorp) has announced a new equity partnership in an effort to support pathways to farm ownership for livestock farm operators.
Following a recent overweight incursion that saw a Mid-Canterbury contractor cop a $12,150 fine, the rural contracting industry is calling time on what they consider to be outdated and unworkable regulations regarding weight and dimensions that they say are impeding their businesses.
Trade Minister Todd McClay says his officials plan to meet their US counterparts every month from now on to better understand how the 15% tariff issue there will play out, and try and get some certainty there for our exporters about the future.
Brett Wotton, an Eastern Bay of Plenty kiwifruit grower and harvest contractor, has won the 2025 Kiwifruit Innovation Award for his work to support lifting fruit quality across the industry.
