Take steps to prevent combine fires

Did you know Ohio ranks 4th in the nation for the number of reported combine fires? Other states leading the list include Minnesota (1st), Iowa (2nd), Illinois (3rd), Kansas (5th), Nebraska (6th) and South Dakota (7th).

While the majority of harvester fires start in the engine compartment, other locations on the combine can be at risk for fires. The primary heat sources causing fires include faulty wiring and over-heated bearings. Fuel sources for the fires can vary between leaking fuel or hydraulic oil, dry crop residues, and nests in engine compartments or exhaust manifolds from birds and wildlife.

Tips to prevent combine fires include:

If a fire breaks out, it’s important to have an emergency plan in place:

Fires of the farm cannot be predicted. However, being prepared and taking preventative measures – especially with forage harvesters – can reduce the damage when a fire strikes.