Avoid the devastating consequences of barn fires
Sponsored Content: Workplace Safety & Prevention Services
Funded by Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs
In recent years, fires tore through Ontario barns with devastating consequences:
- Puslinch, 43 racehorses dead, $4.6 million in damages
- Mount Forest, 12 horses, $400,000 in damages
- St. Thomas, 85 cows, $1.5 million in damages
- Parkhill, 2,100 pigs, $1.1 million in damages
The financial toll of these catastrophes is evident. The emotional aftermath, while less visible, will linger for quite some time. One thing is certain, preventing barn fires must be a priority for farm operators.
Take the time to review the three ways you can reduce the risk and consequences of barn fires.
1. Identify hazards
Begin with a walkthrough. Have an electrician and a representative from your local fire department beside you to help spot potential fire sources and ensure equipment is up to code and being used properly. Some potential fire-starters:
- extension cords used as permanent wiring, which can become frayed or damaged, leading to short circuits
- bare bulbs suspended from the ceiling, which if damaged can spark a flammable object
- welders, cutting torches or grinders used near combustible materials or gases
- faulty equipment, including heating, lighting, process, and electrical
- debris in aisles, stalls, or near exits
- smoking in the barn
2. Minimize the risk
Follow the steps recommended by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs:
- encasing all electrical wire in non-corrosive conduit, and all light fixtures in a glass globe and wire cage
- keep only a day’s worth of hay/feed in the barn
- use hardwired smoke detectors connected to your home or another central location
- install 5 or 10 lb ABC fire extinguishers at each exit and train everyone in their use
- ensure the work area around welders, cutting torches or grinders is free from combustible materials, contains fire extinguishers, and is well ventilated
- use non-combustible sheeting around heat lamps
- install a sprinkler system inside the barn
- post no-smoking signs
3. Prepare for emergencies
Develop an emergency response plan, that includes raising the alarm, using fire extinguishers, rescuing animals, and dealing with emergency responders, and:
- train everyone in your emergency plan, post it, and hold drills once a month
- provide a copy to your local fire department
- make sure your address can be clearly seen from the road
- ensure your road and driveway can accommodate fire department vehicles
- identify water sources on your property
- have a backup generator (stored away from barn) to provide emergency lighting
- review your emergency procedures with your local fire department rep
For free online resources relating to barn fires, visit: https://engage.wsps.ca/ag-barn-fires-2022.
The Project is funded by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. The views expressed in this publication are the views of WSPS and do not necessarily reflect those of the Province.