Dry fields increase farm fire danger before harvest season
Farmers in drought-stricken areas are being urged to take extra precautions as widespread drought raises the risk of farm fires. For Example, more than 96% of Ohio is abnormally dry and nearly half faces moderate drought, making fields and equipment highly vulnerable as harvest approaches.
“Fire safety on farms is critically important because farms present unique fire risks, and the consequences of a fire can be devastating — not just to the farm, but to the entire rural community,” said Dee Jepsen, state safety leader for OSU Extension at Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences (CFAES). Many farmers also serve on local fire departments.
Farmers are advised to check equipment for charged fire extinguishers, keep water trailers ready in remote fields, and train workers in emergency procedures. These precautions are vital. In Ohio, for example, 70% of Ohio’s 1,200 fire departments rely on volunteer firefighters, a workforce that has declined by 6.5% even as emergency calls increase. Similar numbers for volunteer firefighters are likely true in other states as well.
At the upcoming Farm Science Review, the Ohio Soybean Association will present SoyFoam, a soy-based, PFAS-free firefighting foam that reduces cancer risks for emergency crews.
CFAES stresses that fire safety depends on teamwork. Farmers and firefighters are encouraged to create joint emergency plans and strengthen community partnerships to protect farmland, livestock, and lives.
Photo Credit: Ohio State University