Steps To You Can Take To Prevent Barn Fires

Steps To You Can Take To Prevent Barn Fires

Several basic strategies can help to minimize a farm's chances of facing a barn fire; a catastrophic and sometimes deadly event:

#1 - Ban Bucket Warmers - In the winter months, electric water bucket warmers may seem convenient, however they can also be quite dangerous. The heating elements may spark, or the cords may fray. If horse buckets become frozen, tapping out the ice and replacing it with fresh water is a much safer solution.

#2 - Clear Away Clutter - Piled clutter is not only a fire hazard in the barn, but it may also obstruct fire and rescue crews, if a blaze should occur. Horse blankets, saddle pads, tack and other supplies should be stowed and out of the way.

#3 - Display Smoke Detectors - Although smoke detectors may not prevent fires, they do their job by issuing an immediate warning, which can make the difference between a manageable fire and total destruction. Smart barn managers install plenty of smoke detectors and replace batteries regularly.

#4 - Examine Your Electricals - Faulty wiring (for heating and electrical applications) is the number one cause of barn fires each year. By keeping wiring updated, barn managers can ensure they will pass fire code inspections and minimize their risks of tragedy from fire.

#5 - Keep Fire Extinguishers In Abundance - Barn managers may find plenty of areas for cutting costs, but fire extinguishers should not be one of them.

#6 - Keep Your Water Source Close At Hand - Although some fire department vehicles may be equipped with their own water sources, these supplies may not be sufficient for a big barn fire. Smart barn planners will include fire hydrants, unless they can build their barns near ponds or rivers and invest in a ready pump system.

#7 - Other Recommendations - Set up a comprehensive sprinkler system, Store flammable supplies elsewhere other than your barn, Do not smoke (cigars, cigarettes, pipes) near your barn, and last but certainly not least - yes, it is true - animal manure and urine soaked stall bedding can produce its own heat, along with ammonia fumes; creating a hot bed for a spontaneous combustion fire to occur.


Charlottesville Equestrian Realtor
Virginia Equestrian Realtor | Bridget Archer | 434.981.4149