Farm fire safety

Please note: This safety advice is offered as guidance only. If in doubt, Get out, Stay out and get the Fire and Rescue Service out!

The number of farm fires is on the increase so don't let your farm become a statistic. You can prevent these fires by following a few simple rules.

• Reduce the threat of arson (Consider perimeter fencing and lighting).
• Control smoking and hot working (work associated with welding/blow lamps etc).
• Maintain machinery in good working order, especially when coming out of storage.
• Hay and straw should be removed from fields as soon as possible after harvesting and stored:
  • Separate from other buildings, particularly those housing fuels, agrochemicals and machinery.
  • In stacks of reasonable size, spaced at least 10 metres apart.
  • Separate from livestock housing.
• Petrol, diesel and other fuels should be stored in secure areas with storage tank outlets padlocked.
• Fertilizers and pesticides should have the correct signage and be kept under lock and key.
• Refuse should be disposed of safely and on a regular basis.
• Ensure that escape routes and passages are kept free from any stored materials or equipment at all times.
• Ensure everyone knows where the nearest phone is located ane how to call the Emergency Services.

In an emergency call - 999 and provide:

• Full address of the premises.
• Directions if its location is not obvious, for example when along lanes.
• Any local landmark such as a church or other well known reference point.
• An OS 6 figure grid reference.

Useful links

• Farm fire safety leaflet [2] (387 KB)