Fire. It's an ever-present concern on just about any agriculture operation. Everyone can name friends and neighbors who have lost buildings, livestock, products, and even friends and family to a fire. Such tragedies pose an even greater concern because the distance between your operation and the nearest fire department is often great enough that help will not arrive in time to make much of a difference.
The good news is that there are things you can do to actively reduce and minimize the risk of fire in your operation.
- Keep fire sources -- like pilot lights, machinery, and electrical sources -- away from combustible materials in around your farm buildings.
- Make time for fire drills and inspections. Invite your local fire department out to your operation so that they can become familiar with the layout. Have a plan in place for saving livestock in the event of a fire. Conduct regular fire drills so family members and employees know what to do.
- Inspect your heating system to ensure that it is up to date and in good repair. Make sure that vents and heating ducts are free of debris and other materials that might catch fire.
- Strictly enforce a "no smoking" policy on your operation.
- Have the proper fire extinguishers available and make sure your employees know where they are and how to them.
A little attention and good sense can go a long way toward ensuring that fire is never a hazard you have to worry about.