Barn fires are every farm owner’s worst nightmare, often leading to tragic outcomes, including loss of human life, animals, valuable equipment, or the entire building. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reported that from 2013 to 2017, 326 deadly barn fires occurred, resulting in one civilian death, ten civilian injuries, and $28 million in direct property damage annually.

Common Causes of Barn Fires

Insurance statistics indicate that barn fires peak in summer and winter. Summer fires typically result from electrical storms or spontaneous combustion of hot hay. Winter fires are often caused by appliances, rodents chewing through wires, or dust and cobwebs accumulation on electrical surfaces. Heating equipment, especially heat lamps, is a leading cause of barn fires.

Identifying Fire Hazards

Farm owners and managers should be vigilant in identifying potential fire hazards around the farm:

Highly Flammable or Combustible Materials

  • Hay and straw
  • Bedding material (e.g., sawdust, shredded newspaper)
  • Cobwebs and dust
  • Horse blankets
  • Paint, fertilizer, pesticides, and herbicides

Store hay separately from livestock and monitor its temperature to prevent spontaneous combustion. If the temperature exceeds 150°F, disassemble stacked bales to cool them. At 175°F, contact the fire department.

Accelerants

Accelerants, such as gasoline, kerosene, oil, and aerosol cans, must be stored in approved containers and properly labeled. Maintain an updated list of all chemicals on the farm, including their storage location, and provide this information to local authorities if required.

Ignition Sources

Common ignition sources include:

  • Cigarettes and matches
  • Sparks from welding machines and machinery
  • Motors and heaters
  • Electrical appliances and fixtures

Ensuring Safe Roadways and Access

  • Keep roads and driveways wide, well-maintained, and free of obstructions.
  • Trim low-hanging branches and shrubs.
  • Ensure gates are wide and set back from the main road.
  • Maintain 20-foot-wide fire/emergency lanes around buildings.
  • Prohibit vehicle and trailer parking next to barns/stables.
  • Enforce a 15 mph or lower speed limit on farm roads.

Barn Construction Safety

When constructing a new barn:

  • Limit the number of stalls between entrances and exits.
  • Install approved fire doors and firewalls.
  • Use flame-retardant materials and fire-retardant latex paint.
  • Install smoke detectors, fire alarms, and sprinkler systems.
  • Ensure a reliable water source for fire emergencies.

Electrical Safety Measures

Electrical systems in barns are often fire hazards. Follow these safety precautions:

  • Avoid moisture-prone areas for electrical panel boxes.
  • Use corrosion-resistant and weather-proof panel boxes.
  • Utilize metal outlets and switch boxes with dust- and water-tight covers.
  • Encapsulate wires in metal conduit pipes.
  • Install external emergency power cut-off switches.
  • Protect light fixtures and motors with dust- and moisture-resistant covers.

General Fire Safety Precautions

  • Prohibit smoking in barns and storage areas.
  • Keep aisles clean and free of debris.
  • Store vehicles and machinery separately from barns.
  • Equip each stall with a halter and lead shank for emergencies.
  • Practice fire drills and evacuation procedures regularly.

Fire Extinguishers and Smoke Detectors

  • Install ABC dry-chemical fire extinguishers in livestock buildings and workshops.
  • Ensure extinguishers are easily accessible and maintained annually.
  • Install smoke detectors in barns for early fire detection and alert the fire department immediately.

Emergency Procedures

  • Never fight a large or rapidly spreading fire.
  • Ensure escape routes are clear before attempting to fight a fire.
  • Only use fire extinguishers if properly trained.

By following these electrical fire prevention and safety measures, you can help protect your farm, livestock, and property from the devastating effects of barn fires. For expert electrical services and safety inspections, contact Pat Myers Electric at (352) 816-4221. We’re licensed and insured to ensure your farm’s safety and compliance with all electrical codes.