Farm fires are a growing concern in Ontario, with losses in recent years exceeding $30 million annually according to a 2022 report from the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. In response, Haldimand County’s Fire Department is hoping to help local farmers to reduce the risk and impact of agricultural fires.
“Farms have significant combustible loads and sources of ignition,” said Richard Geerdink, Captain, Fire Investigator/Inspector II, and Fire Prevention Officer with Haldimand County Emergency Services. “Hay and straw, wood products, construction materials, fuels, chemicals, fertilizers, and electrical wiring all contribute to a unique fire risk compared to homes or other workplaces.”
A publication titled ‘Reducing the risk of fire on your farms’, published by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs, highlights similar concerns, noting that larger-scale farming operations have amplified potential losses from fires, including damage to buildings, equipment, and livestock.
The report identifies three main causes of farm fires: mechanical or electrical failure, misuse of ignition sources such as welding or cutting, and deficiencies in design, construction, or maintenance. Additional factors – like poor housekeeping, combustible dust, and delayed detection – can worsen the impact.
According to Geerdink, creating a fire safety plan is a critical first step.
“Fire Safety Plans are not one size fits all,” he said. “Each plan is unique to the operation, considering the type of farming, number of buildings, housing, and storage. Operators can contact our division for information and guidance.”
The County encourages farmers to schedule site visits to assess risks and develop tailored strategies.
Day-to-day preventative steps are equally important. Geerdink advises limiting temporary electrical wiring, maintaining safe distances for waste materials, and keeping work areas clean.
“Reduce all ignition sources. Cutting and hot works should not be done inside spaces with combustibles close by. A clean work area is a safe work area,” he said.
The Ministry similarly recommends careful maintenance of electrical systems, ensuring proper wiring and insulation, routine inspections of motors and heating systems, and adequate separation between combustible materials and ignition sources.
Pre-planning for emergency response is another key component. Farmers are encouraged to ensure unimpeded access to all structures and display proper addresses, allowing fire crews to respond efficiently.
“Having the property pre-planned is crucial,” Geerdink said. “Email or call us for a consult. Arrangements can be made for a site visit to determine next steps.”
Haldimand County residents can contact the Fire Prevention division at fireprevention@haldimandcounty.on.ca or by calling 905-318-5932 ext. 6230.
The Ministry’s guide also emphasizes the importance of compliance with building and safety codes. Electrical installations should meet CSA or ULC standards, and fuel or propane storage must adhere to provincial regulations. Proper design, construction, and maintenance – paired with a comprehensive Fire Safety Plan – can significantly reduce both the likelihood of a fire and its potential impact on farm operations.
“Prevention is always better than dealing with a fire after it starts,” Geerdink said. “Every farm is different, and every risk is different. But with proper planning, housekeeping, and safety practices, we can greatly reduce the chances of a devastating fire.”
