NFU releases fire prevention tips for agricultural settings

In a recent publication, the National Farmers Union (NFU) has shared a guide titled “Fire safety – 5 practical tips for preventing fires on farm.”

This guide aims to address the persistent risk of fires in agricultural settings, highlighting the potential for significant losses including farm buildings, produce, and livestock, not to mention the risk of injuries or fatalities.

Securing flammable substances: a key preventive measure

The first tip emphasises the importance of securely storing flammable substances away from public access.

The guide specifically mentions fuels, fertilisers, hay and straw bales, and chemicals as potential fire hazards.

“In particular, bales can be a target for arson; try to keep them away from any areas of public access,” the guide advises.

Where avoiding public access isn’t feasible, it suggests implementing measures like fencing to restrict entry.

Importance of a fire emergency procedure plan

Another critical recommendation is the development of a comprehensive fire emergency procedure plan.

This plan should be easily accessible and include details such as responsible personnel on the farm, muster points, evacuation routes, locations of flammable substances and potential ignition sources, and where fire extinguishers and water sources are located.

Advocating for separate storage units

The guide also advises keeping flammable materials and ignition sources in separate storage units, ideally at least 10 metres away from livestock.

Special attention is drawn to lithium-powered equipment and machines due to their potential for self-ignition.

Regular checks on electrical equipment

Ensuring that all electrical systems and equipment are in proper working order and do not pose a fire risk is another vital step.

Regular inspections and maintenance can help prevent electrical fires, which are a common cause of farm fires.

Utilising local resources for fire safety

Finally, the NFU suggests collaboration with local fire services to assess the suitability and practicality of existing fire prevention and emergency measures.

Additionally, it highlights the value of local WhatsApp groups for sharing information about arson incidents, enabling farmers to respond and manage risks more effectively.

IFSJ Comment

The NFU’s publication of practical fire safety tips for farms reflects a proactive approach to managing the inherent risks in agricultural environments.

By outlining key steps such as secure storage of flammable materials, establishing a fire emergency procedure plan, and regular checks on electrical equipment, the guide provides farmers with essential information to minimise fire risks.

Collaboration with local fire services and utilising community resources like WhatsApp groups for information sharing further enhance this safety initiative.

Such measures are crucial in safeguarding not only valuable farm assets but also the lives and wellbeing of those working in and around these environments.