Barn fires are a farm owner’s worst nightmare. Most have tragic results, such as loss of human life, animals, valuable equipment, and the entire building itself. The National Fire Protection Association estimates that between 2002 – 2005, nearly 1,090 structure fires in livestock, poultry storage, barns, stockyards and animal pens were reported to municipal fire departments annually.

With organic materials like hay and feed and large mechanical equipment, a typical farm has many potential fire safety hazards. Make it a habit to maintain good housekeeping in the barn and keel the yard clear of brush or other flammable debris. Sparks from machinery or even a stray cigarette can turn litter into kindling. Smoking materials that are not properly extinguished can smoulder undetected for days before igniting a fire.

Provide adequate ventilation to prevent buildup of chemical vapours, silo gases and other hazardous byproducts. Proper airflow helps dissipate flammable gas and vapours and prevent heat buildup.

Maintain electrical equipment and keep wires safely enclosed in metal or PVC pipes to protect them from exposure to weather and animals. Keep flammable items away from heat sources, and clean dirt and dust buildup from appliances and equipment to prevent overheating. Never leave portable heating units unattended.

Refuel equipment outdoors, away from open flames and as far from buildings as possible to allow harmful vapours to dissipate. Make sure engines are not running or are not still hot before refuelling.

Farm owners should be able to identify potential fire hazards around the farm. If at all possible, hay, straw and other types of bedding should not be stored in the same building in which livestock is housed. Always take care of the following materials as they are highly flammable materials:

• Hay and straw
• Bedding material
• Cobwebs, dust and grain dust
• Horse blankets
• Paint
• Fertilizer
• Pesticides and herbicides

What makes a Lyon Auction unique among the auction circuit is that all of the equipment is in the same location. Companies are able to liquidate a large fleet of vehicles in a single location. Lyon Auction is able to help well-known companies from conception to the conclusion of an auction. This makes it headache-free and as enjoyable as possible for both the seller and buyer. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us, we’re listening!