The OFM has provided barn fire statistics for the 2013-2017 period. Here are a few highlighted facts:
- over 750 barn fires, many of the barns containing animals/livestock
- 39 reported injuries to humans
- almost $180 million in loss
- These stats do not include field fires, agricultural equipment/vehicle fires or no loss outdoor fires.
On January 4, 2016, 43 racehorses died in the Classy Lane Stables fire. It was the barn fire heard around the world. Each year, barn fires rack up millions of dollars in loss and take the lives of thousands of animals. In minutes, a barn fire can wipe out the hard work of generations of dedication to breeding, production, showing and training programs. Fires can kill pets and human-animal partnerships and can devastate livelihoods in minutes. Due to the extent of damage, the cause of a barn fire is often undetermined. Of those where a cause was determined, electrical and heating appliances are the leading causes of barn fires. The good news? Barn fires are preventable and often can be avoided with simple maintenance steps.
Reducing the Risk of Fire on Your Farm examines the main causes of farm building fires and what you can do to minimize risks.
Barn Fires in Ontario - Learn about the leading causes of barn fires in Ontario and how to prevent them.
10 Ways to reduce the risk of a barn fire - Learn about practical best management practices to reduce the risk of barn fires.
Barn Fire Safety Self-Assessment Form
NFPA Rural Fire Safety - The NFPA Barn Safety Checklist
More At Stake Than The Barn - farm fire safety video created by the Perth East Fire Department
Equine Guelph Fire Prevention Tool - Use this tool to discover the many steps that can be taken to establish good fire prevention practices
If you have any questions or if assistance is required to identify risks on your farm, call the Fire Prevention Department of the Wilmot Fire Department 519-634-5660 ext 9248.
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