Using Fire Extinguishers on the Farm
When handling a fire on your farm, properly-maintained fire extinguishers are your first line of defence.
Equipping Your Farm
Selection and Strategic Placement
Let's explore the types of extinguishers needed for different locations and uses.
Handling a fire on your farm is significantly more manageable when the proper safety equipment is in place. While having extinguishers is a good first step, simply buying a generic model isn't enough.
Equip Your Farming Operation
Selection and Strategic Placement
In the stores, you see many types and sizes of extinguishers, so which ones should you buy? Well, that depends on the location and the class of fire that may start there.
Remember, if you use the wrong type of extinguisher, you may cause a more severe problem! Here is the type of fire extinguisher needed for a particular location.
Fire Extinguisher Types
Balers
2.5-gallon pressurized water extinguisher
Barns
- 10-pound dry chemical, multi-purpose ABC extinguisher
- 2.5-gallon pressurized water extinguisher
Combines
10-pound dry chemical, multi-purpose ABC extinguisher
2.5-gallon pressurized water extinguisher
Farm Vehicles
5-pound dry chemical, multi-purpose ABC extinguisher
Silos
20-pound dry chemical, multi-purpose ABC extinguisher
2.5-gallon pressurized water extinguisher
Tractors
10-pound dry chemical, multi-purpose ABC extinguisher
Workshops
- 10-pound dry chemical, multi-purpose ABC extinguisher
- 5-pound dry chemical ABC extinguisher
Extinguisher Ratings
The "ABC" Rule of Thumb
A simple way to remember
What does the "ABC" rating actually mean on a fire extinguisher? Use this handy mnemonic device to remember which extinguisher fights which fuel source:
- A is for ASHES: Fires involving wood, cloth, hay, straw, or any material that burns down to ash.
- B is for BARRELS: Fires involving paints, petroleum products, and other flammable liquids often found in barrels.
- C is for CURRENT: Fires involving motors, engines, and live electrical wiring.
Essential Fire Extinguisher Usage and Maintenance Tips
Understand Discharge Times
- Dry Chemical: Lasts approximately 1 second per pound. (e.g., A 10 lb. unit lasts just 10 seconds).
- Water: Lasts approximately 30 seconds per gallon. (e.g., A 2.5-gallon unit lasts 75 seconds).
Mounting
- Vehicles/Machinery: Mount on the outside near the door for quick access before entering a burning vehicle.
- Buildings: Mount near exit doors to ensure you have an escape route while fighting the fire.
Monthly Inspection
- Check the pressure gauge to ensure the nitrogen charge is in the green.
- Turn dry chemical extinguishers upside down and tap the bottom. This loosens the powder, preventing it from compacting and failing to discharge.
Safety First
Train everyone over the age of 12 on proper usage. However, prioritize safety: know how to evacuate, call the fire department immediately, and only attempt to fight small, contained fires.
Stay ahead of these risks and safeguard your farm
