Conditions have been ideal for getting out into the fields to get grain harvested. Harvest season comes with lots of anticipation, with growers eager to see the results of all their hard work over the past year. While we hope for high yields, good returns, and an overall successful growing season, I urge everyone to make safety your top priority on the farm.
There have already been several reports of combine fires across the state. The dry conditions we’ve experienced over the last several weeks certainly have not helped to reduce the risk of fires. Additionally, producers all over the county and state are moving equipment from field to field. This additional traffic can lead to some slowdowns on the road. While there is a long list of things to be cautious of when doing farm work, I want to provide some deliberate steps on how we can stay safe on the roads and mitigate the risk of fires during harvest.
Combine fires can start in a variety of ways. Lots of dust and chaff is created as we harvest, and that harvest material can build up in all kinds of places in or on the combine. This dry material, which has lots of surface area, is highly combustible. On top of that, we could have oil or fuel that soaks into the harvest materials. All it takes is a spark or too much heat to get a fire started. That spark or heat might come from an electrical short, an engine spark, or some other moving part on the combine. Some good ways to mitigate the risk of starting a fire include:
- Checking wires and fuses to ensure they’re in working order and good condition.
- Checking and maintaining fuel lines and connections.
- Removing excess crop residues, especially from spaces with lots of moving parts.
- Wipe up any oil or fuel spills as they happen.
If a fire gets started, your safety is the top priority. Shut down the machine and close any of the fuel valves that you can safely access. Keep a fire extinguisher on the combine. Call 911.
On the roadways, harvest season comes along with the potential for slow moving traffic, especially in rural areas. The use of a slow-moving vehicle (SMV) sign can help signal to motorists to slow down sooner. Machine operators should ensure that they have an SMV sign properly mounted to their equipment. An SMV is required for any farm machinery or equipment that travels on the roadways at speeds of 25 mph or less. For fellow motorists on the roadways, be sure to pay attention to slow-moving equipment and take your time. I once came across a post on social media that stated that following a tractor at 20 mph for 2 miles only takes 6 minutes of your time. So, be patient. Roll the window down and take in the scenery of the countryside. You have people waiting at home for you, and so does the farmer. Let’s make sure that everyone gets home safe.
Slow Moving Vehicle Emblem (SMV)
More information on SMVs and combine fires can be found in the two Agricultural Tailgate Safety Trainings linked below. That is where much of the information for this article is sourced from.
OSU Extension Lorain County wishes everyone a safe and successful harvest!
