Fire safety for barns -are your prepared?

If you ask a group of horse owners what safety issues scare them the most, a large number will tell you it’s the threat of a barn fire. There is nothing more devastating than losing horses and other animals in a fire. While there are things outside your control that could cause a fire (like lightning) there are measures you can take to prevent fires or lessen their impact. This is not meant to be an exhaustive list, nor will following this protocol ensure you will never have to deal with such a tragedy. It is merely a checklist of things you should consider.

Develop a fire safety plan

1. Make the plan known to everyone: boarders, employees, visitors, etc.
2. Post the plan in a conspicuous place where it can be seen and read.
3. Review it periodically and update it as needed.
4. The plan should be for humans and horses.

Consider and address property issues

1. Make sure your address is clearly marked and visible at night at the property entrance. Use reflective signs that can be seen at the road.
2. Make sure your driveway is at least 12’-14’ wide, clear of debris and cleared to 13’6” overhead to allow for emergency vehicles.
3. Identify the nearest water source.
4. Know where emergency shut off switches are (electric or other).
5. Locate power lines to avoid problems.
6. Keep exits clear and unblocked; Keep barn aisles free of clutter.
7. If there are multiple buildings, be prepared to clearly describe each building for emergency responders. Consider making rough maps ahead of time to assist.
8. Clear the vegetation immediately around the building.

Minimize hazards inside the barn

1. Is hay stored inside the barn? Make sure it’s dry and in a well-ventilated area.
2. Consider storing hay and shavings outside the barn.
3. Have fire extinguishers available and make sure their inspections are current. Make sure everyone knows where they are and how to use them.
4. Post no-smoking signs around the barn and make sure they are enforced.
5. Leave a 2’ clearing on top of anything stacked to allow water to cascade over it.
6. Store chemicals and gasoline outside the building.
7. Keep heaters at least 4’away from combustibles.
8. Inspect box fans. Make sure they are clean and cords are intact. Turn them off when not in use as motors can overheat. Check rating so the proper ones are being used.
9. Keep a halter and lead rope at every stall.

Script your 911 call in advance

1. Make sure everyone knows the address of the property.
2. Clearly state what the emergency is.
3. Give them your name and the number you are calling from.
4. Pinpoint the exact location of the fire. Be able to describe the involved building clearly, especially if the building cannot be clearly seen from the road.
5. Provide information with regard to how many animals are inside and what type.
6. Describe what else is inside—vehicles? Flammables? Equipment?
7. Tell them of any conditions that may interfere with emergency vehicles—muddy fields, fences, narrow driveways, etc.

Keep these close at hand

1. An emergency first aid kit to include both human and equine supplies
2. An extra halter, lead rope and crop handy
3. Cotton wraps and blankets easily accessible
4. A list of emergency numbers for vets, boarders, etc.
5. An extra water bucket

Assembly a fire safety supply kit (keep together outside the barn, solely for fire use)

1. Fire extinguishers suitable for grass fires
2. Ladder capable of reaching the barn roof
3. Water buckets
4. Rake and shovel to clear vegetation
5. 100’ of connected hose with spray nozzle
6. Gloves, goggles, bandanas, hot pads (for touching hot latches)