The OFMEM 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.
OMAFRA Barn Fire Prevention - Government of Ontario's resource page for barn fire prevention
Barn fires are stressful and traumatic events for farm families. The After the Fire Checklist is a tool to help you manage the overwhelming number of decisions you may need to make in the aftermath of a fire involving livestock.
Barn Fires - A Concern for Ontario Farmers describes the common causes of barn fires and some ways to help prevent them.
Electrical Systems in Barns provides information on how an electrical system can start a fire, regulations and barn electrical maintenance practices
Barn Fire Safety Self-Assessment Form
Investing in Barn Fire Prevention - a table that breaks down prevention steps based on low, medium or high cost
NFPA Rural Fire Safety - a page dedicated to fire safety in rural areas, including 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 519-634-8444 ext 248.
Contacts