How To Reduce Your Risk Of Barn Fires

Jun 15, 2021, 1:24 PM

A barn fire can be one of the most devastating experiences you ever have on your farm. If it does happen, our Farmowners coverage helps pay the replacement cost for outbuildings and other expenses related to the loss of a barn.

Your Hastings Mutual insurance is an excellent tool for you if there’s a disaster. But there’s plenty you can do to reduce your risk of a barn fire before you ever need to contact your local independent insurance agent. Experts at Michigan State University and the University of Kentucky recommend some simple guidelines for protecting your property and reducing fire risk.

Safety precautions

• Prepare the building with safety measures like fire extinguishers near each exit, utility box, and about 30 feet apart throughout the structure.
• Enclose lights and electrical devices. Keep them from overheating and check them regularly to see if lines are fraying or broken.
• Keep hay, twine, and other flammable material away from heat. Keep your property clean so no loose scrap has the potential to catch on fire.
• For the same reason, fuel and vehicles containing fuel need to stay away from things that can burn. Gas will only feed a fire.

Clearing a barn

• A barn fire is just like a house fire — the most important thing is to get everyone outside and away from danger.
• Find a place on your property to take animals if you need to evacuate them from a fire. Make sure it won’t interfere with anyone fighting the fire.
• If you are removing animals, start closest to the exit first and handle animals one at a time or in groups if they are herd animals. Work to reduce their stress; the more stressed they are, the more likely there will be other injuries.
• Indicate gates and stalls with reflective tape or glow-in-the-dark paint, so you can quickly access locations in the dark.

Review your plan regularly with your family and your employees, so everyone understands the process for handling a barn (and house) fire.

What do you recommend for farm and house fire safety? Let me know in the comments.

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