October has been observed as National Fire Prevention Month since 1925, when it was established by President Calvin Coolidge. Fire is one of the most common and most costly causes of loss for farms, ranches, and other commercial agribusiness. Because of this, fire prevention awareness is important year-round.
The Cost of Agricultural Fires
Agricultural fires cause more than $100 million in losses and damage annually according to the U.S. Fire Administration. Farm buildings, machinery, and locations where grain and baled hay are stored have increased fire risk, according to Nationwide Risk Management Consultant, agronomist and Iowa farmer Derek Hommer.
“Prevention is the overarching goal. Fire hazards are all around us in agriculture. That’s why we’re so focused on protecting our customers and their valuable assets,” said Hommer, also a member of the Milo, Iowa, city fire department and member of the city’s Emergency 911 Board. “A strong fire safety plan can help prevent the devastating losses that fire can leave in its path, no matter its cause.”
Fire Prevention is a Year Round Commitment
Planning around fire safety can help prevent and mitigate fire damage in agriculture. According to Nationwide, there are several steps that can be taken:
- Emergency and evacuation planning
- An inventory of combustible materials and where they’re stored
- Regular inspections of buildings, machinery and any other potential fire sources, including equipment like grain dryers that require heat sources and can be enhanced fire risks
- Fire safety training and checklists for farm workers and other workplace employees
- A plan with the local fire department to ensure the right water supplies and other critical fire safety resources are available
- Adequate fire detection and suppression tools are in place, including smoke detectors, fire extinguishers and other sensors and safety tools
Read more from Nationwide about fire safety here.