Farms have unique fire risks, and these risks have increased potential to cause significant and economic damage to your property when ignored.
However, there are many steps that can be taken to establish a good fire prevention strategy that will help reduce the risk of fire on your farm.
The following are ways to ensure your living or work space is as safe as possible during the summer season:
Have a no-smoking policy
There should be no smoking permitted in any barn or farm buildings at any time. Post signs and inform people who frequent your farm of this policy.
Practice good housekeeping
Keeping your farm clean and organized is an excellent way to prevent fires from occurring. Sweep up loose hay, and, after using hay drops, cover the opening with plywood that is covered with flame-retardant, one-hour gypsum board.
Monitor hay bales
Chemical reactions found in baled, damp hay can be a cause for barn fires as mows of tightly-packed bales do not allow this build-up of heat to dissipate. Store dry hay in bales and monitor the internal temperature of hay.
Practice electrical safety
Wires should be enclosed in metal or PVC conduit (pipe) to protect them from exposure to weather and animals and from mechanical damage from machinery and equipment. Combustibles should be kept away from heating appliances, and should never be left unattended.
Regular cleaning of electrical appliances and equipment will prevent build-up of dirt and dust, which can contribute to overheating and malfunction.
Install, maintain lightning rods and grounding cables
Lightning rods are the best solution to prevent lightning-source fires, as they give lightning a direct path to the ground, keeping your barn and livestock safe. Check grounding cables frequently and repair if worn or damaged.
Keep yard free of brush and debris
Remove brush, debris and machinery from around your barn or farm building. Remove weeds and trim under trees and bushes, and keep the grass along the roadways closely mowed.
Refuel equipment safely
Refuelling machinery should be done away from buildings so flammable vapours can dissipate. Refuel equipment outdoors, and make sure engines or motors are turned off.
Install, maintain portable fire extinguishers
Consult your local fire department for advice on the type, rating and location of fire extinguishers. Install fire extinguishers in your barn, tool shed and other farm buildings, and have them on all mechanical equipment and machinery. Inspect the extinguishers regularly.
For more information about ways to keep your farm safe from fire risks, visit www.caledon.ca/fire.
