Farm Risk Management: Property Loss Prevention

There is nothing quite as difficult as losing a home or building to a fire. Practical steps can go a long way in preventing property losses. More than half of all building fires every year are caused by electricity and heating devices like stoves and space heaters.

Planning

• Assess your buildings for potential fire hazards. Where is a fire most likely to start?

• Evaluate electrical and heat sources closely. What other hazards exist?

Building Condition

• Inspect roof drains and gutters. Make sure they are clear before winter.
  

• Monitor roof conditions of flat or shallow sloped roofs, particularly during heavy snow periods. Always use safe methods to remove snow.
  

• Use noncombustible and fire-resistant building materials when possible.
  

• Establish a preventive maintenance program for equipment, building utilities, and processing equipment that meets the manufacturer’s specifications.

Electrical Systems

• Keep electrical and heating systems up to current codes.
  

• Use electrical cords properly; don’t overload outlets.
  

• Extension cords are not meant to be permanently plugged in.
  

• Keep all combustible material at least 3 feet from electrical panels.
  

• Check your electric system on a regular basis and make sure it is maintained.

Heaters and Wood Stoves

• Keep all combustible material at least 3 feet from heaters and stoves.

• Develop a maintenance program to keep heating units clean and maintained.

• Follow manufacturer specifications for all wood stove or heater installation.

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